The initial idea of the residency was to make a larger version of the machine I designed in Florence on the Kinross scholarship but I am still a bit of a nomad so a large sculpture is more of a burden than a creative freedom. The process, as always, was an enjoyable learning one.

Carving the worm gear with a chisel – a time-consuming but satisfying thing to do

These oak staves from whiskey barrels smelled so great when I cut into them. It was hard not to down tools and go for a wee nip.
  

The worm gear trial. It was well balanced but without the cog to test it its hard to tell how well it will move.