Unexpected Happiness Series
2023, UK
Unexpected Happiness Series, (c) Nicola Anthony 2023
A series of tabletop sculptures that capture serendipitous moments of happiness
Stainless steel on mirror polished stainless steel bases, under hand-blown glass domes
Height 25cm / 30cm / 50cm
Each piece from contemporary artist Nicola Anthony’s Unexpected Happiness series captures something remarkable about the human spirit. The sculptures feature moving sentences from the artist’s research, lovingly reverse-cast in stainless steel and cradled within glass - a tangible echo of life's extraordinary moments.
This series traces its genesis to a commissioned public sculpture at Singapore's Festival of Happiness, held at the National Design Centre in 2018: Setting herself the quest to find and study unexpected joy, the artist issued an open call for anonymous stories of serendipity. These powerful stories spoke of resilience and the shared human experience, going much deeper than the superficial glee that contemporary society is glossed with. Since that meaningful project, the Unexpected Happiness Series has continued to grow. In the research and story collecting process that forms the foundation of all Anthony’s artworks, she carefully preserves any tales that fit this theme, crafting them into a series of sculptures that stand as timeless testaments to the beauty of life's surprises.
Sentence inside one of the artworks titled Unexpected Happiness (Finding Home Inside Yourself):
“War radically changed the daily rhythm of our family’s life. Everyone must always be alert. Everything must be charged, fuel, water, & food. One thing changed for the positive though. I have a new sense of home, not in a place but within myself. I find it helpful for my mental state to create my home wherever I am now bringing some echo of what I had there, and build something new. In a way I truly found myself.”
Sentence inside one of the artworks titled Unexpected Happiness (Hold onto these moments):
“Fixing something that is broken, the feeling of breeze on skin, seeing a treasured person after a few days apart, having a sunny morning which stretches out peacefully because there are no other obligations today. In these moments there is such unexpected happiness. Hold on to these moments, they are there often. But they may surprise you by being humble, not the showy ones you may expect from true joy. “
Purchase any of the artworks featured here from Long-Sharp Gallery in America. You can commission your own story as a text sculpture here, or see below for details.
Ever wanted a self portrait with a difference? A special moment preserved forever as art?
Your bespoke sculpture, created in stainless steel and words, will be enclosed in a glass bell jar—a delicate sanctuary for lasting memories. Encased within, you'll find not just art, but a piece of your journey.
“Commissioning a text sculpture by Nicola Anthony offers more than an artwork. It's an invitation to delve into the creative process, where your chosen words will be transformed into a three-dimensional stainless steel marvel.”
Guided by Nicola and the studio team, you'll embark on a personal journey, witnessing your concept evolve into tangible art. This experience isn't just about acquiring art; it's about fostering a connection with the artist and the craft of commissioning.
Here's how it unfolds:
Initially you will receive a certificate and contact details to begin the process, perfect to gift to someone for an anniversary or special occasion. When you or your chosen recipient reach out to Nicola Anthony Studios, a curated 2-3 month journey of creation and commissioning commences.
Your art will arrive meticulously packaged in a presentation box, accompanied by a signed certificate of authenticity and a note from The artist. (Opt for a personalized touch with an engraved wooden or metal base, an optional extra.)
Please note, during peak times, a brief wait-list may apply. After our initial discussion, the creative process will unfold over 2-3 months.
Four sizes available:
Small H18.5cm x W12cm
Medium H30cm W18.5cm
Large H30cm x W25cm
Extra Large H50cm x W30cm
