Tach Pollard, an artist rooted in the rich landscape of Devon, UK, breathes life into oak tree roots, transforming them into otherworldly creatures with stretched limbs. Using the natural form of the roots, Pollard skillfully shapes and carves mystical figures that seem to step out of an ancient tale. Each creation embodies both the whimsy and mystery of folklore, standing as a testament to Pollard’s imagination and the organic beauty of his chosen medium. These elegantly twisted figures capture our attention, melding the real with the mythical. The juxtaposition of wood’s earthy texture and the ethereal qualities of these creatures invites one to ponder the intersection of nature and fantasy.
Pollard’s work is a dance between the natural world and human creativity, reflecting a deep reverence for nature’s untamed artistry. By allowing the unique bends and twists of each root to guide his carving, he creates characters with long, expressive limbs that speak to both their intricate design and the essence of the material. The detailed craftsmanship of each piece fulfills a dual purpose: celebrating the roots’ natural beauty while pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling. Through Pollard’s hands, what was once just overlooked debris becomes a mesmerizing marvel, urging us to see the potential for wonder in the wooden remnants of the past.
I predominantly carve oakroots which i like to collect from local woods. I love the sense of finding a new piece of wood and anticipating the potential of the form it holds inside. Carving is a way of honoring this tree especially the roots I carve. Often I can see its suggested form as I pull it from the ground. (…) Much of my work is inspired by the wood itself, the skeletal structure of Oakroot often whispers in shadows that dance and describe ancient faces. Hawthorn is very hard and tight grained allowing me to carve forms that are born from European Folklore myths and legends like the Norse Eddas, The Mabinogian and the Icelandic Sagas. This folklore is enfused into the earth where the trees have grown for millenia.
Tach Pollard
More info: Etsy, Instagram (h/t: Colossal).
