David Huycke: Risky Business. 25 Years of Silver Objects

David Huycke is a Belgian artist known for his innovative approach to granulation, which he uses to create stillness and natural implicitness in his work. This monograph features close-ups of his silver objects, showcasing the meticulous granulation technique.

Format: Hardback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2019
Publisher: Arnoldsche

The Belgian artist David Huycke is one of the most important silversmiths working today. He first made a name with his sets of dishes, simple design, and subtle use of materials. Nowadays, he is best known for his innovative approach to the traditional technique of granulation. Huycke sets to work like a scientist or an alchemist, casting seemingly impossible concepts in molds, incurring along the way risks such as breakage or collapse. Eventually, his ideas and experiments are selected and elaborated into an object, where they exude a degree of stillness and have a natural implicitness, as if the work could not have been made any other way. With essays by David Huycke and Wim Nys. Text in English, German, French, and Dutch.

Huycke's work is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional silverworking techniques. His pieces often feature intricate patterns and textures created through the process of granulation, a technique in which small particles of silver are fused together to create a smooth, polished surface.

One of the most striking features of Huycke's work is his use of color and light. He often incorporates vibrant hues of blue, green, and yellow into his pieces, creating a sense of depth and dimension that is truly remarkable. This use of color is not just decorative, but also serves to highlight the intricate details of his work and to create a sense of movement and energy.

Another notable aspect of Huycke's work is his approach to form. He often creates pieces that are abstract and geometric, with clean lines and precise angles. This minimalist aesthetic is in contrast to many traditional silverware designs, which are often ornate and intricate. Huycke's approach allows him to focus on the essence of the object and to create a sense of purity and simplicity that is truly captivating.

Despite his success and recognition as a silversmith, Huycke remains humble and dedicated to his craft. He continues to experiment with new techniques and materials, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in silverworking. His work is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation, and to the endless possibilities that exist within the realm of metalworking.

In conclusion, David Huycke is a truly exceptional silversmith whose work is characterized by a meticulous attention to detail, a commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques, and a unique approach to form and color. His pieces are truly captivating and inspiring, and his legacy as a silversmith will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Weight: 702g
Dimension: 214 x 257 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783897905498