Maker Faire Bay Area 2023
Laura Mathews Art
Home: England, United Kingdom
The Phoenix Puppet is a fully articulated mythical bird with beautiful fiery wings, clawed feet that grip and an iridescent beak. Fully controlled by Laura Mathews, it's creator and puppeteer, the Phoenix will take 'flight', land and strut amongst the makers. Also other puppets and creations may include the Sparrow, the Velociraptor and a Dragon puppet.
https://www.instagram.com/lauramathewsart
Additional Project Photos
Maker
Laura Mathews
I design and make articulated animal sculptures and puppets. My work focuses on bio-mimicry and creating truly convincing impressions of life. I spend a huge amount of time designing each creature, recreating natural movements.
https://www.lauramathewsart.com/What Inspired You to Make This?
I am eternally fascinated by biological mechanics, especially those relating to flight. I was inspired to make a large bird puppet after being frequently visited by a family of magpies during the first Covid lockdown. As the design developed, I decided to make it more flamboyant. The Phoenix, a symbol of rebirth and new beginnings, fit perfectly with the return to the 'new normal' post-pandemic.
