Philip Jackson, Scottish sculptor and photographer

Philip Henry Christopher Jackson, born on April 18, 1944, is a distinguished Scottish sculptor widely acclaimed for his evocative, modern style and a profound emphasis on form. Holding the prestigious title of Royal Sculptor to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Jackson's monumental works grace not only numerous cities across the United Kingdom but also extend their reach internationally, with notable pieces found in Argentina and Switzerland.

Notable Commissions and Public Art

Among his most celebrated public commissions is the magnificent bronze statue of England's legendary football captain, Bobby Moore. Standing an impressive six metres tall – twice life-size – this iconic tribute was unveiled in May 2007 outside the main entrance of the new Wembley Stadium. It stands as a powerful testament to Moore's enduring impact on the beautiful game and British sporting heritage. Beyond this, Jackson's portfolio includes other significant outdoor installations such as the poignant Jersey Liberation sculpture, commemorating the end of Nazi occupation, and a youthful depiction of 'Young Mozart' charmingly situated in Chelsea.

A Sculptor's Journey: Life and Influences

Born in Scotland during the tumultuous era of the Second World War, Philip Jackson's artistic journey began against a backdrop of global change. He honed his craft at the Farnham School of Art, now known as the University for the Creative Arts, laying the groundwork for his distinctive approach. His career path took an interesting turn initially, spending a year as a press photographer, a period that perhaps sharpened his eye for capturing dynamic moments, before transitioning into sculpture within a design company. Today, Jackson operates from the tranquil Edward Lawrence Studio in Midhurst, West Sussex, where he also resides nearby. His professional life is a balanced blend: approximately half his time is dedicated to fulfilling bespoke commissions, while the other half is spent creating pieces for his gallery, allowing for both client-driven projects and personal artistic exploration. Jackson openly acknowledges a pantheon of masters as his artistic forebears, including the expressive power of Jacob Epstein and Auguste Rodin, the monumental forms of Henry Moore, the insightful portraiture of Oscar Nemon, and the abstract energy of Kenneth Armitage. However, he often emphasizes that the most profound and powerful influences in his life are deeply personal: his wife, Jean, and his son, Jamie, who both actively collaborate with him in his artistic endeavours, creating a true family enterprise.

The Essence of Jackson's Sculpture: An Artistic Vision

Philip Jackson articulates his artistic philosophy with a vivid description, stating, "My sculptures are essentially an impressionistic rendering of the figure." He elaborates on the unique textural progression within his works: "Where you see the figure seemingly grow out of the ground, the texture resembles tree bark, rock, or lava flow." This creates a powerful, elemental foundation. As the viewer's eye ascends the sculpture, the finish undergoes a transformation, becoming "gentler & more delicately worked," culminating in the meticulously crafted "hands and the mask, both of which are precisely observed & modelled." This distinctive approach creates a compelling dialogue between raw, natural forms and refined, detailed human expression, characteristic of his modern style.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is Philip Jackson?

Philip Henry Christopher Jackson, born on April 18, 1944, is a highly regarded Scottish sculptor known for his modern style, emphasis on form, and his role as Royal Sculptor to Queen Elizabeth II.

What is Philip Jackson known for?

He is renowned for his significant public sculptures, his distinctive modern style, and his ability to create impressionistic figures with evolving textures. His works are found across the UK and internationally.

What notable public sculptures has Philip Jackson created?

Among his prominent works are the twice life-size bronze statue of Bobby Moore at Wembley Stadium, the Jersey Liberation sculpture, and the 'Young Mozart' statue in Chelsea.

Where can Philip Jackson's sculptures be seen?

His sculptures are displayed in numerous cities throughout the United Kingdom, as well as in international locations such as Argentina and Switzerland.

Who influenced Philip Jackson's artistic style?

Artistically, he draws inspiration from masters like Jacob Epstein, Auguste Rodin, Henry Moore, Oscar Nemon, and Kenneth Armitage. However, he credits his wife, Jean, and son, Jamie, who work with him, as the most powerful personal influences.

How does Philip Jackson describe his own artwork?

He describes his sculptures as "essentially an impressionistic rendering of the figure," characterized by a textural progression from raw, elemental forms at the base (resembling tree bark or lava) to delicately worked and precisely modelled hands and masks at the top.