Sakis - Winged Monkey Sculpture

Inspired by a recent visit to Kulen Mountain in Cambodia, I discovered a plethora of fantastical stone animal sculptures, including winged monkeys amidst ruined temples and overgrown forests. I was reminded of Nikko from the Wizard of Oz and drew on my childhood memories of the moment I first saw him on the screen and the sheer joy that conjured. My piece evokes a sense of serenity and spirituality as a nod to the temples - hand built in stoneware clay and glazed in white tin and gold leaf. Sakis is also a monkey found in South America and often referred to as a flying monkey due to its versatility and leaping ability.