Guy Taplin

An introduction to Guy Taplin & his beautiful hand crafted birds. They emanate feeling and are made from the depth & breadth of knowledge built up by Guy over his lifetime. Now in his 80's Guy is described by his dealer David Messum as a hugely engaging character, character which is reflected in his birds. He lives near Wivenhoe in Essex and not only has a quirky studio within his home environment but also another workplace or 'shack' by the sea. It's there he forages for wood often dragging his finds back to craft his sculptures. David explains they are not meant to be exact replicas of particular breeds but part of Guy's genius is that they are interpreted into being wooden identities in their own rights. Guy is an exquisite painter & his colours resonate through the bodies of the birds. They stand elegantly on plinths or set against timber as a backdrop on the walls.
Guy was wrapped up by his interest in wildlife as a boy in post WW2 London. Later he built on this knowledge by becoming the "Bird Man' at London Zoo. His works are popular across the globe & their distinctive natures have found themselves into homes of celebrities, as well as collectors, adding huge enjoyment to all who come across them.
Guy's wife Robina Jack is a talented potter & his daughter Nancy follows in the family tradition of art.