Doug Marsden

Doug Marsden chose to study netsuke carving during the 1980's, travelling from New Zealand to Japan and exhibiting in Tokyo on several occasions. Netsuke carving is a particular discipline within the world of sculpture. Originating in Japan hundreds of years ago, the artform is practiced by very few people worldwide today.
Doug's preferred medium to carve is boxwood, which is dense and tightly grained, suitable for very fine details. On occasion he also works in stone, bone, and makes a delightful range of miniature bronzes. His exquisitely tactile sculptures are charming depictions from the animal and human realms.
New Zealand's unique bird species are represented with Kiwi, Ruru and Kakapo. The marine environment, with which Doug has a strong affinity, is inspiration behind his Humpback Whale and Whalerider sculptures.

Sculpting process

Doug Marsden creates his sculptures in an intimate space, similar in scale to a jeweller's workshop.
His carvings are held close while he works on them, enabling him to achieve fine detail.
Working on several carvings simultaneously, he will switch between them to remain focused.
Final stages in his sculpting process can involve inlay of eyes, and staining of the boxwood timber to achieve a lovely depth of colour.
His Netsuke and wood carvings are all one off, unique pieces, while his collection of bronzes are produced in small numbers.
All work is signed.

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