A Direct Approach Drawing was central to Popeʼs creative activity. This approach was founded in his early training as an apprentice jig and tool draughtsman at Rolls-Royce, where he learned how to visualise 3D objects through drawing, as well as traditional life drawing classes at Derby School of Art and later the Slade. On paper Pope recorded and developed his ideas – a practice that he later described as an essential part of ʻthe growth towards sculpture.ʼ As Pope preferred to carve or construct his sculptures directly, drawings and occasionally scale models provided an important testbed for his chosen forms and materials. Sometimes he would allow himself to be guided by the natural features and qualities of a lump of wood, or stone. However, as some of the drawings in this exhibition reveal, the drawing itself, including its colours or marks, could be just as important an influence on a finished sculpture and its texture.
Ronald Pope stamped this symbol the Greek letter pi - into some of his metal works as a signature.
The secret artist works alone Driven by an inner urge To create again A special version of the truth Devoid of material gain Satisfying universal need.
Ronald Pope