Step into the peaceful surroundings of the Higher Spargo Yard and join Carlos Zapata, a skilled and deeply thoughtful artist, as he shares a window into his creative process and inspirations.

In this short video, Carlos shares reflections on his 23 years at Higher Spargo, a hub of creative energy where he is surrounded by fellow artists and makers in the yard.

Viewers get a glimpse into the studio whereby Carlos creates impressive automata and sculptures using a mix of wood and metal, often repurposed from reclaimed or recycled materials - making the sculptures even more unique.

The self-taught automata artist learnt his craft not from formal institutions but from exploring museums, experimenting in his studio, and simply trying things out. His work - colourful and full of emotion - often carries a political or social comment, delivered with a balance of humour as the movement brings the automata alive.

“You can do anything you want with your imagination.” - Carlos Zapata

Videographer: Sophie May

Writer: Muirne MacKinlay MacLeod