Out this month is Romany Mark Bruce: Sculpting Colour, a book about the life and works of Romany Mark Bruce. Romany is the artist responsible for the AIDS memorial statue in Kemptown. The monograph from the Unicorn Publishing Group explores the life choices which have informed Romany’s artistic pathway. It analyses the sculptural techniques he employs in his thriving painting practice. Romany is, in his own words, “a sculptor who paints”.

Romany Mark Bruce is a British sculptor who has gained recognition for his emotionally impactful public art. Raised in Brighton, a city known for its vibrant arts and LGBTQ+ communities, Bruce was influenced by his surroundings and personal experiences. His most famous work is the “AIDS Memorial” sculpture “Tay,”. It was unveiled in Brighton in 2009 and is a striking symbol of remembrance and reflection for those affected by the AIDS pandemic.

Bruce’s artistic process is deeply personal and meticulous, often beginning with sketches and extensive research into the subject matter he wants to represent. He works primarily with metals, particularly bronze, creating pieces that combine traditional sculpting techniques with a modern aesthetic. His work is not just about form, but also about invoking emotion. Bruce’s sculptures are known for their fluidity, capturing movement and emotion in ways that invite viewers to engage with both the physical structure and its deeper meaning.

You can read a Q&A about the book here.

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