Volcano Sculpture

The recent eruptions of the Icelandic volcano Eyafjallajokull have resulted in some stunning imagery of this spectacular phenomenon, in both video and still photography.






For a nature photographer a visit to the site would be an ultimate experience - but often the most stunning artistic creations are produced in the most extreme and dangerous natural situations.






In Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, the Kilauea volcano which has been flowing to the sea since 1983 has attracted people to attempt sculptures with the molten lava. Years ago I recall seeing video of a sculptor wearing asbestos gloves while shaping the liquid rock into heads reminiscent of Easter Island figures, but haven't been able to find a link. Underwater lava sculptor, Bud Turpin, has attempted shaping active lava flows on numerous dives on active lava flow off the Big island.

One of my favourite artists, environmental sculptor Andy Goldsworthy, collaborates with nature to make his creations. Among his works are references to the powerful beauty of natural phenomena such as lava pools.