Jan Zalud
Rumplestitskin
Jan’s beginnings were carving puppets out of collected driftwood as a sideline to large abstract paintings. Initial encouragement and various awards contributed to the development and refinements of these rough and often primitive figures. The puppets (usually marionettes) gradually developed into automata. Keeping the wood as natural as possible and enhancing its quality was just as important as the movement. Jan tried to combine the sometimes dark humour narrative with the visual aspect - often treating the wood by sanding to a fine finish to utilise the beauty of the grain, or by leaving the tool marks to show the making process. The revealed mechanism was often an integral part of the design.
The puppets and the automata in particular went on to be exhibited throughout the UK (including here at MAKE Southwest 15 years ago in 'Tall Stories') and abroad, occasionally representing Great Britain. Jan’s many collaborations with various puppet companies and theatres include London's renowned Little Angel Theatre, Polka Theatre, and others such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Globe.
Jan says: “I love the versatility of wood for both the aesthetic and the functional side. It lends itself so well to the kinetic aspect.“
Manchester