A ndrew’s interest in art began at an early age, when he would copy images in pencil from books and magazines, “but my interest in sculpture only began when I was about 15.” Having decided to study architecture, Andrew’s art teacher at the time persuaded him to apply for an undergraduate MA in Fine Art, which meant that he could study sculpture at Edinburgh College of Art.

“The first sculptures I remember seeing were some small wooden animals carved by my grandfather, and a bronze otter sculpted by Penny Wheatley in memory of the author Gavin Maxwell, which is on a cliff top in south-west Scotland, near Port William, where I grew up.” Andrew is now artist in residence at Ardingly College one day a week. “I am using this time to create some new, large-scale sculptures which I hope to exhibit here in the south east and in Scotland in an attempt to raise my profile. My ultimate goal is to find the right balance between teaching, commissioned work, and my own work made for exhibition, while continuing to develop my teaching studio in Billingshurst.”

Andrew hopes to inspire his students in the same way that his teachers inspired him. “I think the most important piece of advice I would give to someone wanting to sculpt would be to be very careful when selecting where to study. Do your research, and make sure you go somewhere that offers good quality tuition in the area that interests you, as a lot of colleges don’t offer great facilities and tuition in sculpture. I would also say don’t be afraid to contact established sculptors who you admire, as more often than not they will be happy to advise you and may even offer you the chance to do some work experience in their studio. Sculptors are always looking for willing assistants!”

Around six years ago, Andrew set up Sussex Sculpture Studios, with his work partner and fellow sculptor Marjorie Talbot. “We are currently based in Billingshurst, where we provide good quality studio space for other artists as well as regular classes in drawing, painting and sculpture for anyone who is interested.”

Andrew takes commissions, and normally begins the process by discussing the subject of the sculpture and its proposed location before making a series of small models to be presented to the client for further discussion, leading to the final design.

Although he currently doesn’t have any exhibitions planned, Andrew is working on a new body of work at Ardingly College which he hopes to submit to some large open exhibitions in London and in Glasgow next year.

Epstein House, 1 Daux Road, Billingshurst, RH14 9TF, 01403 786224; sussexsculpture.co.uk