Pay By Card Where Possible by Matt Wass, Mixed Metal, Found Objects, Glass, Unique, 148cm high by 90cm wide by 90cm deep, Female, Figurative sculpture

This piece by Matt Wass is a striking mixed metal sculpture made from found objects, glass, and reclaimed machinery parts. It stands 148cm high, 90cm wide, and 90cm deep. This unique work shows a person with one leg sitting in a wheelchair. They reach forward, holding out a card as if about to pay for something.

The figure’s body is built from metal stop discs. These round shapes link together like armour, but they also leave gaps that let light shine through. Through these openings, you see a glass heart. It sits clear and open at the centre, reminding us what’s human beneath all the metal.

Old bolts, gears, and scrap metal form the wheelchair and limbs. Each piece feels rough yet carefully chosen. The wheels look sturdy but the figure’s pose stays gentle. One leg ends cleanly, showing a missing limb but not hiding it.

The sculpture feels raw yet calm. It talks about how we trade real human connection for speed and ease. When we swipe a card, we open our hearts to the machine. At the same time, we hide behind metal and plastic.

Wass invites us to look closer. We see the fragile human shape inside cold metal. We think about what we pay for and what we lose. The figure, reaching out, asks us to pause before we pay.