The Process

Forming the Foundation

Each piece begins with the shaping of a curved wooden form. In his earlier work, Robert created these forms from solid hardwood, joining multiple segments of timber with precision and expertise. In his latest pieces, he constructs the eye using intricately hand-cut hardwood veneers. Across both approaches, he draws on long-practised woodworking skills, working with the grain, structure and behaviour of the wood to shape the foundation of each artwork. The eye’s distinctive structure is created through intricate radial patterns — a hallmark of his practice — with every component chosen for its tone, grain and character.

Colouring the Iris

Once the form is established, the colouring process begins — a stage where material sensitivity and visual intuition come together. Layers of pigment inks are applied using brushes, natural sea sponges, feathers and airbrushing. Built slowly over several days, these layers create depth, luminosity and subtle movement, while allowing the wood’s inherent qualities to guide the evolving iris.

Finishing and Reflection

After the colour work is complete, each piece is sealed with multiple coats of UV-resistant lacquer. Once fully cured, the surface is burnished to a high-gloss mirror finish — a hallmark of Robert’s practice. This final stage transforms the artwork into something that not only holds light but responds to it, drawing the viewer into a quiet, intimate exchange as the piece reflects its surroundings.

A Unique Creation

Through this merging of craft, technology and imagination, every eye becomes a singular creation — a piece that celebrates precision, the expressive potential of wood and the subtle complexity of human vision.