This character was commissioned by Debra, who wanted a clown of sorts. Herla is inspired by historical figures such as Arlecchino, the Harlequin and King Herla and also contemporary jesters, and clowns. The amazing costumes from Cirque de Soleil were a delightful source of inspiration and I had many months enjoying the process of creating Herla guided by Debras open minded vision.

Essentially Herla is a character of contrasts, happy and sad, mischievous and serious, male and female, evil and good, stupid and clever etc. The dualistic natures of the humankind in one character.

'Wonderful, wonderful!' - Debra