Amazing Sculptures made from money by Justine Smith

‘Poppy’. Chinese Banknotes, Acrylic Dome. 61 x 38 cm. 2005

Justine Smith was born in Somerset in 1971. After finishing a foundation course in Somerset College in 1990, she moved to London to study at the City and Guilds of London Arts School. Her work is exhibited in galleries and museums internationally, and she also has work in the collections of the British Council, international corporations and private collections. She lives and works in London.

Paper is a basic material for any artist. However, for Smith, paper itself has become the medium, and the knife that she uses is her pen. Previously well known for using collages of comics on her sculptures and also for her cut paper pieces, she has recently been focusing on making work with money. On a physical level, a banknote is just a piece of paper, but it is what a banknote actually represents that is central to Smith’s practice.

Intrigued by what currency represents, with its inherent value yet singular usage, Smith explores this contradiction, and celebrates the symbols that unite millions.