Permanent Offshore Sculpture

[Merlion]

Not sure if a light beacon is required at this location.

THE UK'S FIRST PERMANENT OFFSHORE SCULPTURE IS COMING TO NORTHUMBERLAND (http://www.24hourmuseum.org.uk/nwh_gfx_en/ART46339.html)

... The sculpture, the first permanent offshore artwork in the UK, is entitled 'Couple' and features two 5-metre-tall bronze figures of a man and woman looking wistfully out to sea.

The project .... represents the culmination of three years’ work by sculptor Sean Henry....

http://www.24hourmuseum.org.uk/content/images/2007_1444.JPG

http://www.24hourmuseum.org.uk/content/images/2007_1446.JPG

Not only is the eagerly awaited artwork likely to be a hit with tourists, it also looks set to make a big splash in the art world.

“This spectacular setting will provide a unique context for Henry’s work, creating a wonderful platform for what, in spite of its size, is an intimate sculpture which speaks to all of us,” said Peter Osborne, Director of Osborne Samuel Gallery in London. “Couple will be accepted and appreciated as a key element in the visual statement made by the new breakwater.”

People won’t have to wait long to meet Newbiggin’s newest residents, Couple will be launched in July 2007.

[fritchie]

Thanks for this, Merlion. The article says it's part of a new breakwater that will improve coastal defense and reduce wave action as a prelude to rebuilding a beach for recreation and tourism. A bold step by the local authorities, and I like what is shown of the sculpture.

[evaldart]

Very nice. I always thought it would be very pertinent to create a colossus of "nobody in particular", like your aunt Harriet or the guy behind the counter at the Taco Bell. Statesmen, heroes and saints seem so predictable.