George Wyllie
Scottish Scul?tor
George Wyllie (1921 – 2012) was an extraordinary self-taught artist and a pioneering ‘social sculptor’ whose wildly imaginative creations transformed everyday materials – like steel, stone, wood, and paper – into captivating works of art. With a style he described as ‘seriously playful’, Wyllie’s approach engaged the public and delivered powerful messages that still ignite conversation and inspire.
Among his most iconic public artworks are ‘The Straw Locomotive’ (1987) and ‘The Paper Boat’ (1989). He also penned and performed the award-winning play ‘A Day Down A Goldmine’ (1982). His works unapologetically tackle pressing social and political issues, engaging with topics such as the climate crisis, capitalism, and the decline of Britain’s industrial backbone.
–
George Wyllie was born in Shettleston, Glasgow, on Hogmanay in 1921. The bustling port of the River Clyde, then filled with ships, greatly influenced his later artwork. During World War II he served as an engineer in the Royal Navy. While in the Pacific, he visited the devastated city of Hiroshima, witnessing the destruction of the atomic bomb. After the war, and marriage to his beloved Daphne, Wyllie became a customs and excise officer in Greenock – a job that involved a lot of questioning.
In 1965, Wyllie decided it was time for art and entered a four-decade-long career as an artist.
Stories from the Archives
Follow our blog as we explore the George Wyllie archive, sharing our discoveries along the way.
Original Earth Guarantee
Long before ‘climate change’ became a common term, artist George Wyllie addressed environmental concerns with his 1982 piece, the Original Earth Guarantee. This striking print resembles a legal document and combines artistry with a powerful message about the planet’s urgent future, serving as a warning and a call to action for our responsibility towards Earth.
A special edition of prints by released by the Wyllie Estate to mark the 50th anniversary of Earth Day.
A3 print on 300gsm white recycled board
Original price was: £30.00.£25.00Current price is: £25.00.
10 in stock