Patricia Lee Jeffree

Your sculptures often begin with discarded or forgotten objects. What is the first moment when you recognize that an item has the potential to become a new character or artwork?

The first time I recognise the potential of a item to become a sculpture is when I see the shape, the core of a sculpture. An instant vision of what the item will become. I do not see a old wire basket I see a beautiful maiden, or a giant turtle. A lamp post I see a tree, or curved golden statues.

Many of your works – such as those created from driftwood, wire baskets, or lamp posts – seem to contain a personal history. How much of that found object’s story influences the final sculpture?

Each found object has a story, starting with a meeting, a voyage, then at the final destination, a story of its travels.

Your practice spans sculpture, painting, drawing, poetry, and fashion design. How do these disciplines influence each other in your creative process?

My disciplines influence each other often, Fashion desighn and metal work created Fashion Folly where material meets industrial. I paint my sculptures like a canvas, my drawings are poetry.

There is a sense of mythology and symbolism in your figurative forms. What themes or narratives do you find yourself returning to most often?

I lean towards peace, strength and beauty with my sculptures.

What role does the Central Coast environment play in inspiring your work, especially your use of natural and repurposed materials?

The central coast is inspiring, we have abundance of earthly materials, mountains, oceans, lakes, wildlife. There is a place called Patonga here on the coast, a peaceful campground where the ocean meets the river, I often go there and draw.

Many of your figures appear elongated, elegant, almost ceremonial. Is this stylistic choice inspired by specific cultural or artistic references?

I like to create sculptures with grace, style, of elegance and beauty. Often they look towards our heavens, Faith.

Your sculptures seem to embody a strong emotional presence. What emotions or messages do you hope viewers experience when encountering your artworks?

I hope when viewer’s look at my art that just for a brief moment they forget there troubles, worries, and heartaches.