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Spectacular artwork unveiled
1:01pm Wednesday 7th May 2008
Comments (120) Have your say »
By St Helens Star newsdesk »
THE ST Helens Star can exclusively reveal the first image of the stunning artwork that promises to become an iconic landmark for the North West of England.
Created by internationally renowned Catalan artist Jaume Plensa, the spectacular piece entitled 'Dream', will sit on top of the former Sutton Manor
Colliery overlooking the M62.
At 20 metres high (65 feet), which is the same height as Antony Gormley's Angel of the North, 'Dream' will be made from pre-cast concrete with a white almost luminescent finish, using a white marble/concrete mix. The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface. 'Dream' takes the form of the head of a girl, her eyes closed in quiet contemplation.
It is the culmination of conversations between the artist, former miners and members of the wider local community who wanted something that looked to a brighter future and created a beautiful and contemplative space for future generations It is being commissioned by St Helens Council as part of The Big Art Project, a public art initiative from Channel 4 supported by Arts Council England and The Art Fund.
The progress of 'Dream' is being filmed for The Big Art Project, which is due to be aired later this year. 'Dream' will launch, subject to planning permission and project progress, in late 2008.
Jaume Plensa said: "My work is first and foremost about celebrating life and the human experience of standing in between past and present, present and future, knowledge and ignorance. I fell in love with this site in St Helens as soon as I saw it! The spectacular setting, proud heritage, vision for the future and the warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational.
"To have been invited to capture the essence, hopes and aspirations of a whole community on this scale is a great honour but also an awesome responsibility."
Former Sutton Manor miner Gary Conley added: "Thanks to this fantastic artist Jaume Plensa, I believe we have a piece of artwork that not only reflects the past heritage of the site but also projects into the future. Sutton Manor Colliery may never produce coal again, but now because of this wonderful piece of artwork, its soul and millions of memories will live on."
Council Leader Brian Spencer commented: "This landmark aims to not only put St Helens on the map, but also to have a major positive impact on the rest of Merseyside and the North West in terms of the significant and cultural benefits it will bring."
Your Say Your Star
kv, st h says...
1:50pm Wed 7 May 08
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
kv, st h says...
1:50pm Wed 7 May 08
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
ellyz, st helens says...
1:54pm Wed 7 May 08
kv wrote:well said
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
ellyz, st helens says...
1:54pm Wed 7 May 08
kv wrote:well said
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
ellyz, st helens says...
1:54pm Wed 7 May 08
kv wrote:well said
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
Stephen Wainwright, Sutton says...
2:22pm Wed 7 May 08
ellyz wrote:None of the cost will come from the Council Tax. The Big Art Project in St.Helens is covered by grants from the Forestry Commission, Arts Council etc etc. This money would probably have gone down south if it hadn't been for the hard work of the ex-miners and others on the steering group who've won it.
kv wrote:well said
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
I think Plensa's creation looks stunning. It will be subject to a planning application like every other building and structure, so raise your objections then if you so wish.
Well done to everyone concerned. I wonder how vandal-proof it will be though!
Stephen Wainwright
Stephen Wainwright, Sutton says...
2:22pm Wed 7 May 08
ellyz wrote:None of the cost will come from the Council Tax. The Big Art Project in St.Helens is covered by grants from the Forestry Commission, Arts Council etc etc. This money would probably have gone down south if it hadn't been for the hard work of the ex-miners and others on the steering group who've won it.
kv wrote:well said
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
I think Plensa's creation looks stunning. It will be subject to a planning application like every other building and structure, so raise your objections then if you so wish.
Well done to everyone concerned. I wonder how vandal-proof it will be though!
Stephen Wainwright
Stephen Wainwright, Sutton says...
2:22pm Wed 7 May 08
ellyz wrote:None of the cost will come from the Council Tax. The Big Art Project in St.Helens is covered by grants from the Forestry Commission, Arts Council etc etc. This money would probably have gone down south if it hadn't been for the hard work of the ex-miners and others on the steering group who've won it.
kv wrote:well said
Is that where my council tax is going ? Is the funding of this monument by St Helens council tax payers at the heart of the best interests of our community ? How about funding a new stadium for the Saints, an A & E department for St helens hospital, funding for activities to keep kids off the streets on a night, funding for more policing of our streets by community officers, keeping schools open that will otherwise be closed. Who on earth is in charge of our purse strings
I think Plensa's creation looks stunning. It will be subject to a planning application like every other building and structure, so raise your objections then if you so wish.
Well done to everyone concerned. I wonder how vandal-proof it will be though!
Stephen Wainwright
kev jones, says...
2:22pm Wed 7 May 08
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
kev jones, says...
2:22pm Wed 7 May 08
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
kev jones, says...
2:22pm Wed 7 May 08
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
kv, st h says...
3:02pm Wed 7 May 08
kev jones wrote:Clearly obvious, don't you think. Thousands of poeple will brave the seven sea's from far & wide, every corner of the globe to marvel at such a majestic wonder, and wonder...........? What, Why, How much did that cost, Who was the numpty that paid for it & how on earth do you think you will benefit form a "big girl's white concrete & marble head with eyes closed dreaming of being some where else right now remember coal mining" in this day and age ?
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
kv, st h says...
3:02pm Wed 7 May 08
kev jones wrote:Clearly obvious, don't you think. Thousands of poeple will brave the seven sea's from far & wide, every corner of the globe to marvel at such a majestic wonder, and wonder...........? What, Why, How much did that cost, Who was the numpty that paid for it & how on earth do you think you will benefit form a "big girl's white concrete & marble head with eyes closed dreaming of being some where else right now remember coal mining" in this day and age ?
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
kv, st h says...
3:02pm Wed 7 May 08
kev jones wrote:Clearly obvious, don't you think. Thousands of poeple will brave the seven sea's from far & wide, every corner of the globe to marvel at such a majestic wonder, and wonder...........? What, Why, How much did that cost, Who was the numpty that paid for it & how on earth do you think you will benefit form a "big girl's white concrete & marble head with eyes closed dreaming of being some where else right now remember coal mining" in this day and age ?
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
Steve D, st helens says...
3:20pm Wed 7 May 08
Im not one of these whos going to rant about 'our taxes' and 'waste of money' and so forth, as I think culture is to be encouraged, as is any attempt to put our town on the map for any positive reasons.
However I must echo the earlier statements: Its a big, stretched girls head.
What in gods name has that got to do with our town, how does it represent the mining industry and what is the thinking behind it? Im sure its an inspirational piece artistically, but fail to see ANY link between this and its supposed purpose. Strikes me as the artist using the premise of the town/coal mining to acquire the funding to satisfy his artistic needs and forgetting what his original brief is.
However I must echo the earlier statements: Its a big, stretched girls head.
What in gods name has that got to do with our town, how does it represent the mining industry and what is the thinking behind it? Im sure its an inspirational piece artistically, but fail to see ANY link between this and its supposed purpose. Strikes me as the artist using the premise of the town/coal mining to acquire the funding to satisfy his artistic needs and forgetting what his original brief is.
Steve D, st helens says...
3:20pm Wed 7 May 08
Im not one of these whos going to rant about 'our taxes' and 'waste of money' and so forth, as I think culture is to be encouraged, as is any attempt to put our town on the map for any positive reasons.
However I must echo the earlier statements: Its a big, stretched girls head.
What in gods name has that got to do with our town, how does it represent the mining industry and what is the thinking behind it? Im sure its an inspirational piece artistically, but fail to see ANY link between this and its supposed purpose. Strikes me as the artist using the premise of the town/coal mining to acquire the funding to satisfy his artistic needs and forgetting what his original brief is.
However I must echo the earlier statements: Its a big, stretched girls head.
What in gods name has that got to do with our town, how does it represent the mining industry and what is the thinking behind it? Im sure its an inspirational piece artistically, but fail to see ANY link between this and its supposed purpose. Strikes me as the artist using the premise of the town/coal mining to acquire the funding to satisfy his artistic needs and forgetting what his original brief is.
Steve D, st helens says...
3:20pm Wed 7 May 08
Im not one of these whos going to rant about 'our taxes' and 'waste of money' and so forth, as I think culture is to be encouraged, as is any attempt to put our town on the map for any positive reasons.
However I must echo the earlier statements: Its a big, stretched girls head.
What in gods name has that got to do with our town, how does it represent the mining industry and what is the thinking behind it? Im sure its an inspirational piece artistically, but fail to see ANY link between this and its supposed purpose. Strikes me as the artist using the premise of the town/coal mining to acquire the funding to satisfy his artistic needs and forgetting what his original brief is.
However I must echo the earlier statements: Its a big, stretched girls head.
What in gods name has that got to do with our town, how does it represent the mining industry and what is the thinking behind it? Im sure its an inspirational piece artistically, but fail to see ANY link between this and its supposed purpose. Strikes me as the artist using the premise of the town/coal mining to acquire the funding to satisfy his artistic needs and forgetting what his original brief is.
Stephen Wainwright, Sutton says...
3:22pm Wed 7 May 08
kv wrote:Right from the outset some 18 months ago it was said that it would not be a literal interpretation of mining.
kev jones wrote:Clearly obvious, don't you think. Thousands of poeple will brave the seven sea's from far & wide, every corner of the globe to marvel at such a majestic wonder, and wonder...........? What, Why, How much did that cost, Who was the numpty that paid for it & how on earth do you think you will benefit form a "big girl's white concrete & marble head with eyes closed dreaming of being some where else right now remember coal mining" in this day and age ?
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
Art is subjective. Just because you don't like it or understand it doesn't mean that others won't.
Stephen Wainwright, Sutton says...
3:22pm Wed 7 May 08
kv wrote:Right from the outset some 18 months ago it was said that it would not be a literal interpretation of mining.
kev jones wrote:Clearly obvious, don't you think. Thousands of poeple will brave the seven sea's from far & wide, every corner of the globe to marvel at such a majestic wonder, and wonder...........? What, Why, How much did that cost, Who was the numpty that paid for it & how on earth do you think you will benefit form a "big girl's white concrete & marble head with eyes closed dreaming of being some where else right now remember coal mining" in this day and age ?
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
Art is subjective. Just because you don't like it or understand it doesn't mean that others won't.
Stephen Wainwright, Sutton says...
3:22pm Wed 7 May 08
kv wrote:Right from the outset some 18 months ago it was said that it would not be a literal interpretation of mining.
kev jones wrote:Clearly obvious, don't you think. Thousands of poeple will brave the seven sea's from far & wide, every corner of the globe to marvel at such a majestic wonder, and wonder...........? What, Why, How much did that cost, Who was the numpty that paid for it & how on earth do you think you will benefit form a "big girl's white concrete & marble head with eyes closed dreaming of being some where else right now remember coal mining" in this day and age ?
So it's a big white girl's head? to help celebrate our former mining industry?
Art is subjective. Just because you don't like it or understand it doesn't mean that others won't.
Steve D, st helens says...
3:41pm Wed 7 May 08
Stephen,
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Steve D, st helens says...
3:41pm Wed 7 May 08
Stephen,
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Steve D, st helens says...
3:41pm Wed 7 May 08
Stephen,
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Stephen Wainwright, says...
3:53pm Wed 7 May 08
Steve D wrote:This is the brief Steve which has been in the public domain for quite some time. I can't see how the artist has breached it. I think the keyword is 'reference'.
Stephen,
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Make a big impact & be highly visible both day & night
Become a recognised & instantly recognisable "geographic & brand identifier" for St.Helens
Become a positive icon for the Liverpool City Region & North West England
Reference the history & heritage of the site and former colliery
Symbolise the positive transformation, regeneration, & future of St.Helens
Become an "informal" visitor destination in its own right
Act as a catalyst for the recreation & leisure development of the immediate area
Foster community pride & help raise local aspirations
Reference &/or consider the use of renewable energy
Be permanent & low-maintenance
Take account of the site's topography, ground conditions, existing planting & wildlife
Be capable of construction & installation within the set budget & time frame
Stephen Wainwright, says...
3:53pm Wed 7 May 08
Steve D wrote:This is the brief Steve which has been in the public domain for quite some time. I can't see how the artist has breached it. I think the keyword is 'reference'.
Stephen,
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Make a big impact & be highly visible both day & night
Become a recognised & instantly recognisable "geographic & brand identifier" for St.Helens
Become a positive icon for the Liverpool City Region & North West England
Reference the history & heritage of the site and former colliery
Symbolise the positive transformation, regeneration, & future of St.Helens
Become an "informal" visitor destination in its own right
Act as a catalyst for the recreation & leisure development of the immediate area
Foster community pride & help raise local aspirations
Reference &/or consider the use of renewable energy
Be permanent & low-maintenance
Take account of the site's topography, ground conditions, existing planting & wildlife
Be capable of construction & installation within the set budget & time frame
Stephen Wainwright, says...
3:53pm Wed 7 May 08
Steve D wrote:This is the brief Steve which has been in the public domain for quite some time. I can't see how the artist has breached it. I think the keyword is 'reference'.
Stephen,
No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit.
I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining.
By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Make a big impact & be highly visible both day & night
Become a recognised & instantly recognisable "geographic & brand identifier" for St.Helens
Become a positive icon for the Liverpool City Region & North West England
Reference the history & heritage of the site and former colliery
Symbolise the positive transformation, regeneration, & future of St.Helens
Become an "informal" visitor destination in its own right
Act as a catalyst for the recreation & leisure development of the immediate area
Foster community pride & help raise local aspirations
Reference &/or consider the use of renewable energy
Be permanent & low-maintenance
Take account of the site's topography, ground conditions, existing planting & wildlife
Be capable of construction & installation within the set budget & time frame
kv, st h says...
3:56pm Wed 7 May 08
Steve D wrote:Think you have hit the nail on the head there Steve.
Stephen, No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit. I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining. By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
kv, st h says...
3:56pm Wed 7 May 08
Steve D wrote:Think you have hit the nail on the head there Steve.
Stephen, No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit. I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining. By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
kv, st h says...
3:56pm Wed 7 May 08
Steve D wrote:Think you have hit the nail on the head there Steve.
Stephen, No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit. I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining. By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.
Steve D, st helens says...
4:02pm Wed 7 May 08
But exactly how does it 'reference' the heritage of the site and former colliery?
Lets review the artists descriptive words:
'The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface' - Meaningless nonsense. An artistic contrast to something that cant be seen, and even if did remind people of the coal beneath the surface, then its hardly positive 'you all lost your jobs, but the product is still there...lets celebrate'
'her eyes closed in quiet contemplation' - Im certain anyone who worked at the colliery in the old days will remember working non stop in all sorts of filth, no sitting contemplating, and again any contemplating done on the site will be of how a former massive local employer has gone and been replaced by a white elephant.
'warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational' - How does this design encompass those aspects of the former workers? It is neither warm (cold and clinical colour), humourous (eyes closed, distant figure) or passion (she couldnt look more disspassionate if she tried)
Granted it ticks all the other boxes from the original remit, but my issue is why they even pretend its anyway linked to the old colliery and in some way keeping the memory of the site alive when its blatantly completely unrelated and just an excuse to lump a big piece of art in a very noticeable location.
Lets review the artists descriptive words:
'The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface' - Meaningless nonsense. An artistic contrast to something that cant be seen, and even if did remind people of the coal beneath the surface, then its hardly positive 'you all lost your jobs, but the product is still there...lets celebrate'
'her eyes closed in quiet contemplation' - Im certain anyone who worked at the colliery in the old days will remember working non stop in all sorts of filth, no sitting contemplating, and again any contemplating done on the site will be of how a former massive local employer has gone and been replaced by a white elephant.
'warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational' - How does this design encompass those aspects of the former workers? It is neither warm (cold and clinical colour), humourous (eyes closed, distant figure) or passion (she couldnt look more disspassionate if she tried)
Granted it ticks all the other boxes from the original remit, but my issue is why they even pretend its anyway linked to the old colliery and in some way keeping the memory of the site alive when its blatantly completely unrelated and just an excuse to lump a big piece of art in a very noticeable location.
Steve D, st helens says...
4:02pm Wed 7 May 08
But exactly how does it 'reference' the heritage of the site and former colliery?
Lets review the artists descriptive words:
'The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface' - Meaningless nonsense. An artistic contrast to something that cant be seen, and even if did remind people of the coal beneath the surface, then its hardly positive 'you all lost your jobs, but the product is still there...lets celebrate'
'her eyes closed in quiet contemplation' - Im certain anyone who worked at the colliery in the old days will remember working non stop in all sorts of filth, no sitting contemplating, and again any contemplating done on the site will be of how a former massive local employer has gone and been replaced by a white elephant.
'warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational' - How does this design encompass those aspects of the former workers? It is neither warm (cold and clinical colour), humourous (eyes closed, distant figure) or passion (she couldnt look more disspassionate if she tried)
Granted it ticks all the other boxes from the original remit, but my issue is why they even pretend its anyway linked to the old colliery and in some way keeping the memory of the site alive when its blatantly completely unrelated and just an excuse to lump a big piece of art in a very noticeable location.
Lets review the artists descriptive words:
'The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface' - Meaningless nonsense. An artistic contrast to something that cant be seen, and even if did remind people of the coal beneath the surface, then its hardly positive 'you all lost your jobs, but the product is still there...lets celebrate'
'her eyes closed in quiet contemplation' - Im certain anyone who worked at the colliery in the old days will remember working non stop in all sorts of filth, no sitting contemplating, and again any contemplating done on the site will be of how a former massive local employer has gone and been replaced by a white elephant.
'warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational' - How does this design encompass those aspects of the former workers? It is neither warm (cold and clinical colour), humourous (eyes closed, distant figure) or passion (she couldnt look more disspassionate if she tried)
Granted it ticks all the other boxes from the original remit, but my issue is why they even pretend its anyway linked to the old colliery and in some way keeping the memory of the site alive when its blatantly completely unrelated and just an excuse to lump a big piece of art in a very noticeable location.
Steve D, st helens says...
4:02pm Wed 7 May 08
But exactly how does it 'reference' the heritage of the site and former colliery?
Lets review the artists descriptive words:
'The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface' - Meaningless nonsense. An artistic contrast to something that cant be seen, and even if did remind people of the coal beneath the surface, then its hardly positive 'you all lost your jobs, but the product is still there...lets celebrate'
'her eyes closed in quiet contemplation' - Im certain anyone who worked at the colliery in the old days will remember working non stop in all sorts of filth, no sitting contemplating, and again any contemplating done on the site will be of how a former massive local employer has gone and been replaced by a white elephant.
'warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational' - How does this design encompass those aspects of the former workers? It is neither warm (cold and clinical colour), humourous (eyes closed, distant figure) or passion (she couldnt look more disspassionate if she tried)
Granted it ticks all the other boxes from the original remit, but my issue is why they even pretend its anyway linked to the old colliery and in some way keeping the memory of the site alive when its blatantly completely unrelated and just an excuse to lump a big piece of art in a very noticeable location.
Lets review the artists descriptive words:
'The pale colour is seen as a contrast to the blackness of the coal that still lies beneath the surface' - Meaningless nonsense. An artistic contrast to something that cant be seen, and even if did remind people of the coal beneath the surface, then its hardly positive 'you all lost your jobs, but the product is still there...lets celebrate'
'her eyes closed in quiet contemplation' - Im certain anyone who worked at the colliery in the old days will remember working non stop in all sorts of filth, no sitting contemplating, and again any contemplating done on the site will be of how a former massive local employer has gone and been replaced by a white elephant.
'warmth, humour and passion of the former miners I have met are all truly inspirational' - How does this design encompass those aspects of the former workers? It is neither warm (cold and clinical colour), humourous (eyes closed, distant figure) or passion (she couldnt look more disspassionate if she tried)
Granted it ticks all the other boxes from the original remit, but my issue is why they even pretend its anyway linked to the old colliery and in some way keeping the memory of the site alive when its blatantly completely unrelated and just an excuse to lump a big piece of art in a very noticeable location.
Kev Jones, says...
4:09pm Wed 7 May 08
can I just add i'm not opposed to art, I think it has an important role in improving the quality of life-even if it is paid for by taxes.But I'm not impressed by the design, my eight year old daughter has something very similar in her bedroom and she puts wigs and make up on it.It's hardly imaginative is it?
Kev Jones, says...
4:09pm Wed 7 May 08
can I just add i'm not opposed to art, I think it has an important role in improving the quality of life-even if it is paid for by taxes.But I'm not impressed by the design, my eight year old daughter has something very similar in her bedroom and she puts wigs and make up on it.It's hardly imaginative is it?
Kev Jones, says...
4:09pm Wed 7 May 08
can I just add i'm not opposed to art, I think it has an important role in improving the quality of life-even if it is paid for by taxes.But I'm not impressed by the design, my eight year old daughter has something very similar in her bedroom and she puts wigs and make up on it.It's hardly imaginative is it?
kv, st h says...
4:14pm Wed 7 May 08
Stephen Wainwright wrote:Other than being highly visible day & night, I can't see how the rest of this brief is to be acomplished. You can try till you are blue in the face but you will not convince me that any benifit will be gained.
Steve D wrote: Stephen, No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit. I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining. By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.This is the brief Steve which has been in the public domain for quite some time. I can't see how the artist has breached it. I think the keyword is 'reference'. Make a big impact & be highly visible both day & night Become a recognised & instantly recognisable "geographic & brand identifier" for St.Helens Become a positive icon for the Liverpool City Region & North West England Reference the history & heritage of the site and former colliery Symbolise the positive transformation, regeneration, & future of St.Helens Become an "informal" visitor destination in its own right Act as a catalyst for the recreation & leisure development of the immediate area Foster community pride & help raise local aspirations Reference &/or consider the use of renewable energy Be permanent & low-maintenance Take account of the site's topography, ground conditions, existing planting & wildlife Be capable of construction & installation within the set budget & time frame
A fool and his money are easily parted.
kv, st h says...
4:14pm Wed 7 May 08
Stephen Wainwright wrote:Other than being highly visible day & night, I can't see how the rest of this brief is to be acomplished. You can try till you are blue in the face but you will not convince me that any benifit will be gained.
Steve D wrote: Stephen, No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit. I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining. By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.This is the brief Steve which has been in the public domain for quite some time. I can't see how the artist has breached it. I think the keyword is 'reference'. Make a big impact & be highly visible both day & night Become a recognised & instantly recognisable "geographic & brand identifier" for St.Helens Become a positive icon for the Liverpool City Region & North West England Reference the history & heritage of the site and former colliery Symbolise the positive transformation, regeneration, & future of St.Helens Become an "informal" visitor destination in its own right Act as a catalyst for the recreation & leisure development of the immediate area Foster community pride & help raise local aspirations Reference &/or consider the use of renewable energy Be permanent & low-maintenance Take account of the site's topography, ground conditions, existing planting & wildlife Be capable of construction & installation within the set budget & time frame
A fool and his money are easily parted.
kv, st h says...
4:14pm Wed 7 May 08
Stephen Wainwright wrote:Other than being highly visible day & night, I can't see how the rest of this brief is to be acomplished. You can try till you are blue in the face but you will not convince me that any benifit will be gained.
Steve D wrote: Stephen, No one expects a literal piece of artwork, after all nobody wants to see a 20 metre piece of machinery or filthy minor trudging up at the end of a 14 hour shift, but I fail to see how this is even representative or open to correct interpretation. Infact, the artist himself comes out with a load of meaningless buzz words and rubbish and cannot link it properly to the project remit. I venture to guess hes had this design for years waiting for someone to fund him and the organisers have fallen hook, line and sinker for his explanation of how it ties in to the coal mining. By all means request a piece of art, by all means make it big bold and special - but dont launch it under the premise that it somehow is to represent one of our finest heritages and industries when it in no way does.This is the brief Steve which has been in the public domain for quite some time. I can't see how the artist has breached it. I think the keyword is 'reference'. Make a big impact & be highly visible both day & night Become a recognised & instantly recognisable "geographic & brand identifier" for St.Helens Become a positive icon for the Liverpool City Region & North West England Reference the history & heritage of the site and former colliery Symbolise the positive transformation, regeneration, & future of St.Helens Become an "informal" visitor destination in its own right Act as a catalyst for the recreation & leisure development of the immediate area Foster community pride & help raise local aspirations Reference &/or consider the use of renewable energy Be permanent & low-maintenance Take account of the site's topography, ground conditions, existing planting & wildlife Be capable of construction & installation within the set budget & time frame
A fool and his money are easily parted.
Ray Spruance, St Helens says...
4:23pm Wed 7 May 08
Its a pity we did not know about this terrible waste of money last Wednesday and not today, we could have shown what we think of the idea and the council at the ballot boxes.
Ray Spruance, St Helens says...
4:23pm Wed 7 May 08
Its a pity we did not know about this terrible waste of money last Wednesday and not today, we could have shown what we think of the idea and the council at the ballot boxes.
kv, st h says...
1:50pm Wed 7 May 08