Three main themes emerged from Philips work: that of Life, Enlightenment and Peace. He expanded on these themes as he was interviewed for television and, as his own life drew to a close, he was encouraged to write notes about his sculptures. Such was his humility, that he bundled his collection of notes together under the title 'Candlestick maker'. These notes (italicised text) offer insights and thus form the core of the content offered alongside the images being shown of his work.

The candle flame symbolising Life

To Philip, a lit candle drew into one the essential elements of air, earth, water and fire. To him the flame could be seen as a symbol of life itself. He was reminded of human existence in the lighting, movement, guttering and dying of a candle flame. Indeed when himself faced with having to put out the flame of a candle, Philip was at great pains to ensure that it was rapidly extinguished; that no long-smoking ember was left to linger in the enveloping darkness. He prompted those around him to consider this also, not least when in contact with candle flames on the 'holders' that he had made.

Enlightenement

Philip also used the light from the candle flame, within the context of particular sculptures, to symbolise enlightenment. He explored the ways that this was experienced; looking at revelation, truth and faith. It was also perhaps no coincidence that some of his latter sculptures - that posed some of the deeper questions - held no candles; the artist hoping that in their contemplation, the onlooker would find their own personal enlightenement.

Peace

The third theme coming out of his work, communicated through his choice of candle holders, was that of the movement from conflict to peace and its maintenance. Philip was born as the dark clouds of the second world war were gathering, and the experience of war and its aftermath left a profound impression on him. He developed a strong abhorrence of war and its futility.

Philip also indicated through his work that he identified deeply with the life and aims of the warrior - not in a mercenary self-interested sense - but someone involved with more noble principles fighting for good, justice and peace. With an unshakeable faith, Philip truly believed that an individual's considered communication of such sentiments to those in positions of influence, would ultimately be the significant event in the establishment of lasting Peace.

Being very aware of the meditational state possible obtained by gazing into a flame, he used this to great effect.

Thus from Philip's anvil, warriors emerged as defenders, sentinels or often holding vigils for peace with the sword exchanged for the lit candle. Each warrior wore a helmet indicating a constant readiness for battle; the absence of facial features suggesting that the individual self became secondary in the battle for higher truth. The combination of figures with their candles thus became his physical prayers for protection and enlightenment. He offered these prayers to people that he valued, and to those in positions of responsibility.