During the Salone del Mobile Milano 2011

The Armed Man (or in its original French “L’Homme Armé”) is a tune that can be traced throughout history and across the world. Originally a 15th century song, warning of the threat of invasion and that “the armed man must be feared”, calling people to arm themselves with a coat of mail, it can be found repeated in 20th century compositions, from Italy to New Zealand, the riff repeating and reworked; an historical composition that transcends time.

In much the same way, the works of Peter Oliver Davies are concerned with a historical subject: that of ceremonial war suits and adorning and protecting the body; sculptures that convey a recognisable concept of traditional armour, yet communicate it in a contemporary manner.

Taking this song as inspiration for the title of his first solo exhibition, it emphasises the broad range of stimuli found in his work, amongst the more notable, nature, music and architecture – including fractal forms, algorithmic patterns and geometric shapes – with the objective to develop these themes in order to craft a suitable language for the eventual form and elaboration of his designs.

Endeavouring to combine contemporary manufacturing techniques and modern day processes with the skill and knowledge of master craftsmen within the realisation of his sculptures, the results are unlike the seemingly bulky and vacant figures displayed in traditional armour found in historical museums, yet they are a fusion of bold shapes and clean lines, incorporating a feeling of power and movement.