Interview for Design City Exhibition 2008 National Exhibition Centre. Birmingham. UK
 
What / Who influences you?
 
Regarding artists; I would say Anthony Gormley for his insights into the human mind + body and how he uses space + scale. Damien Hirst + Tracy Emin also influence + intrigue me. At times, I struggle to be direct. These artists are masters of directness. I love Philippe Starck for his self portrayal as “a professional dreamer”. The fun and playful approach he has to his work. I love Christo and Jeanne-Claude's methodology and artworks are totally, totally admirable. So powerful + people interactive.

... and, but not finally, Bertil Vallien, Bernard Dejonghe and John Lewis. Glass artists that I have had the privilege of briefly working alongside. Who's techniques, philosophy, methodology and artworks inspired me in the early development years of my journey as an artist.
 
There are a number of trends seen in the Design World – what key trend is influencing you currently?

I am influenced by changing social trends rather than specific trends in the design world. I despair at the plights of young people. Helping them realise their aspirations and utilise their energy is to be a source of continual motivation.
 
What inspires you?

Life, I am intrigued by human behaviour – and inspired by the capacity of the mind, and the people who use the powers of the mind to effect change. If artists and designers cannot have licence to dream, imagine and create, then who can?
 
What piece of wisdom do you have for artists and designers starting out?

I believe young designers should be passionate and dedicated, whilst striving for freedom of thought: Be the shepherd, not the sheep.
 
 
Describe your project
 
I am displaying a series of site-specific sculptures for sporting arena’s, titled “Temples of Warriors
 
What gave you the idea for the project?

My sculptures draw on the ethos of sport in today’s culture, as well as studies of the Ancient and Modern Olympics. While studying art and design, I worked with young footballers as a coach at West Bromwich Albion.Football Club. I firmly believe in the principals that sport and art can be instrumental in developing the more rounded person.
 
What techniques are involved in its development?

This project was influenced by the opportunities of achievement through sport. The journey and its contribution to a person’s life.
I carefully select a technique to suit each project, with years of research helping me make decisions to marry this aspect to the work. The ‘Temples of Warriors’ incorporates the construction of stone and the qualities of light and glass. The glass acts as a podium that brings light into the darkest corners of the structure, creating areas with pools of light cascading though the shadows of the mass.

Thank You.
 
Birmingham-born artist Ken Howell, is in collaboration with the Jewellery Industry Innovation Centre, part of the Birmingham City University's School of Jewellery.
 
Ken’s projects include site-specific installations in Public, Community and Corporate Environments. He also
exhibits and sells his work internationally.