James Copper
Born
James Copper was introduced to sculpture at a young age through a family connection with Henry Moore. His godfather, one of Moore’s assistants, immersed him in the collections of Kettle’s Yard, the Fitzwilliam Museum, and the home of Sir Frederick Gibberd in Harlow, fostering an early appreciation for art and form.
Education
He trained at St Albans and Canterbury College of Art, graduating in 1990. Earlier experiences include study at Cyprus College of Art, work at Canterbury Cathedral, and assisting the sculptor Stephen Cox.
Career
A figurative stone carver, James Copper has developed a practice shaped by travel and conservation. As Sculpture Conservator at the Henry Moore Foundation, he has engaged with diverse global traditions, from the Tumaco culture of Colombia and Ecuador to British modernism. His work has been widely exhibited across the UK and is held in private collections throughout the UK and Europe. He was awarded the Tom Pemberton Travel Award, which allowed him to work at the Henraux Marble Yard in Italy. He lives and works in Essex.
Subjects of Work
Influenced by Moore’s early works and the sculpture of Henri Gaudier-Brzeska, his carvings explore time, emotion, and material. Hands, often modelled on his own, recur as motifs—appearing as nurturing forms, supportive structures, or more enigmatic presences—celebrating the essential creative tool that makes sculpture possible.
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Contemporary £3,360 inc VATTabletop Stone Figurative Portrait Sculpture – Dreaming Head 1990 by James Copper (Unique)
Dreaming Head 1990 by James Copper, Stone
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Body £6,480 inc VATLarge Marble Figurative Female Sculpture – Angel 1993 by James Copper (Unique)
Angel 1993 by James Copper, Marble
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Contemporary £8,640 inc VATLifesize Figurative Stone Sculpture – Pride by James Copper (Unique)
Pride by James Copper, Stone, Unique