John Grayson has a rich background in metal-smithing having trained in
3D Design at Wolverhampton Polytechnic specialising in fine metal. He is
currently most widely known for his printed tin plate automata inspired
by the Victorian and 60's toys made of the same material.
His automata are often inspired by narrative, being three-dimensional
whimsical and often satirical observation on today's world. The work is a
craft based interpretation of the processes and procedures employed by
the tin toy and tin box industry. The artwork is printed on to the tin
and details impressed into it's surface, before the sheet is cut and
folded into a three dimensional object. Tabs and slots are then used to
join and hold the sheet in place. The combination of primitive printing
and forming, combined with hand working allows Grayson to create objects
evoking childhood memories and play.
Grayson has exhibited widely throughout the United Kingdom including the
Crafts Council's Crafts Fairs, and Contemporary Applied Arts,
and has had work featured in journals including Crafts and American
House and Garden. In Germany his work is promoted by craft2eu. Two of his most elaborated pieces were sold to the collection of the
Museum für Kunst & Gewerbe, Hamburg.