Archangel Studio

Russell uses the technique of needle felting to produce his intricate bird sculptures. Natural roving (unspun wool) is repeatedly stabbed using a specialised barbed needle to interweave the fibres and gradually build up the resultant felt into the required form. Russell selects from his collection of Merino and rare breed wools as well as repurposed tweed fabrics in order to create the desired texture, colour, characteristic plumage and markings of each species. Wing and tail details are embellished with a combination of machine and hand stitching whilst feet are created in papier-mâché over wire frames.

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Russel demonstrates an exquisite attention to detail in his sculptures. Each has a breathtakingly life-like appearance and is made life-sized.