The project began with a blacksmithing demonstration using fire and anvil which illustrated to the children the methods involved in forging steel. This gave them an opportunity to understand some of the processes involved in making metal sculpture.
This was followed by a presentation about previous sculptures made by Paul Margetts.
The Heys is a new primary school and wished to develop a sculpture that expressed its ideals and ethos and would inspire all who worked at and visited the school. The ideas that needed to be described in the sculpture were, achievement, community, happiness, support and consideration for others. The children were asked to express these themes through drawing and physical movement. Paul then used these suggestions to inspire his design for the sculpture.
Below is a selection of drawings produced by the children which inspired the design.
Scale drawings and a model were made prior to the construction of the full size piece.
Paul organised most aspects of the commission including design, manufacture, transport and installation, making the process straight forward for staff members at school.
The finished sculpture.
Story-boards were made for the dedication that describe the partnership between Paul and the school.
The sculpture was dedicated in the presence of local councillors, school governors, parents and teachers while the children sang songs.
The commission proved to be very
successful. A dynamic piece of art has been made for the front of the reception
area
that describes the spirit of the school; the students and staff were involved
throughout the commission; and the school and the local community have a strong
sense of ownership of the work. The head teacher and staff were enthusiastic and
supportive throughout the project and made this commission very satisfying from
the artist's perspective.
Thanks to all at The Heys!
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