What first strikes one about Volute V is the sense of movement and rhythmic liveliness in the patinated bronze segments. Referencing the tops of Classical columns, the curving divisions peel away from a central column in dramatic sensual curls, clearly showing de Monchaux’s interest in the spatial geometry and light captured within. As one walks around the work, the eye travels constantly drawing the space. de Monchaux cites Joseph Rykwert’s 1996 book The Dancing Column (that explores architectural columns through a gendered and humanistic lens) as an important influence on his work.

Describing himself as a “figurative sculptor” rather than one driven by intangible concepts, de Monchaux believes that the articulation of form – through deceptively simple and elegant works - can itself elicit a powerfully poetic and emotional response.