Willard Wigan - micro-sculptor

Programme Outline

The programme is filmed in Willard’s studio. Surrounded by examples of his large-scale work, he takes a piece of thin wood and with a sharp blade begins to carve a micro-sculpture of the Queen Mother, complete with shoulder bag and small enough to fit into the eye of a needle. At times it is almost painful to watch the depth of concentration, patience and steadiness required to achieve this tiny masterpiece, so perfect in every detail. Other micro-sculptures by Willard are shown – a minute galleon, a camel, Rupert the Bear, all magnified many times so that the viewer can appreciate his incredible skill.