The project began with a reference image from the client featuring a Greco-Roman inspired face carved into a Celtic harp. This initially led me to explore Greek sculptural traditions, but after learning more about the author being honoured, I felt it would be more meaningful to draw inspiration from Northern European folklore and fairy tales.

My early concept sketches explored mystical forest figures that represented the creativity and imagination of a genre writer. I had hoped to develop these sculptural busts into a three-dimensional award, but the client felt strongly about retaining the Celtic harp with its female figurehead, along with symbols of genre fiction such as a rocket ship, sword, and other iconic elements.

From there, I explored each symbol individually before finding a way to unite them into a cohesive composition. Drawing loosely from Celtic design traditions, I wove the elements together as though they had been carved into an ancient harp entwined with wild roses. The final design evolved through a collaborative and enjoyable creative process, and I am proud to have created this piece for the EKA.