Speaking at TED is a big deal being, as it is, a conference that offers ‘knowledge and inspiration from the world’s most inspired thinkers’.
Browsing the site just now, I was a hugely surprised to see my old neighbour, Willard Wigan, now numbers among TED’s speakers. Let’s be clear, I wasn’t surprised because he didn’t deserve the invitation – what Willard is able to do is utterly extraordinary. It’s just that I’m know him as the friendliest, best-dressed guy on my street whose model airplanes used to fall into my back garden.
He moved away a little while back, which is a shame, although I understand he’s still around Birmingham.
So here’s TED’s blurb about Willard:
Willard Wigan tells the story of how a difficult and lonely childhood drove him to discover his unique ability — to create art so tiny that it can’t be seen with the naked eye. His slideshow of figures, as seen through a microscope, can only be described as mind-boggling.
Now please spare 20mins to watch Willard Wigan’s talk – Hold your breath for micro-sculpture:
Oh, and here’s a pic of me looking suitably dumbstruck last time I caught one of Willard’s exhibitions (pic by Pete Ashton):
