Study for The Relic of the Future

Emulsion Paint Sculpture, by Joe Hodway. Media used, post consumer emulsion paint. Dimensions H: 30 cm x W 20 cm x D 14 cm.

Joe Hodway, an MA student part of RCA's Painting programme, has created a bust using materials he created for the RCA Material Archive. The chosen medium is a refined polymer with a vinyl silk finish, typically used in emulsion paints. This material offers a smooth, silky appearance and is known for its durability and washability. 

By repurposing this acrylic medium material, Hodway challenges traditional sculpting mediums, aligning with sustainable practices and encouraging a dialogue on environmental responsibility in art. The bust showcases how unconventional materials can be transformed into fine art, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression while promoting sustainability.

Emulsion Paint Sculpture by Joe Hodway, part of RCA Material Archive. Photos by Iana Nikolova.

About Joe Hodway

Born in Dubai to a British mercenary and a primary school teacher, Joe Hodway has led a life rich in cultural experiences across the Middle East, Europe, and Southeast Asia. These diverse environments have profoundly influenced his artistic style, evident in his paintings, sculptures, and photographic works. Hodway is renowned for creating pieces that transform their appearances under varying conditions, exploring themes of plurality and the interconnectedness of matter, energy, time, and space. He believes that context significantly alters perception, stating, “Any one thing—including a person—can seem to be something entirely different, and even appear to have diametrically opposite qualities. It all depends on the context of how they are experienced.” 

Website: joehodway.com