St Austell, a charming town nestled in the heart of Cornwall, is home to a unique and towering figure that has been making waves since its unveiling in June 2022. This is the Earth Goddess, a striking ceramic sculpture that stands as a testament to both artistic innovation and the town's rich cultural heritage. Created by the renowned English ceramicist Sandy Brown, the Earth Goddess is not just a sculpture; it's an experience, a conversation starter, and a symbol of transformation.
The Earth Goddess is a marvel to behold, standing at an impressive 11.5 meters tall with arms stretching 6 meters wide. This makes it the tallest ceramic sculpture in the United Kingdom. The sculpture is composed of five large circles of clay, each divided into three parts, stacked atop one another like colossal ceramic beads on a metal pole. The vibrant 'blobs' of color decorating the figure add a whimsical touch that contrasts beautifully with the more austere surroundings of St Austell's town square.
The creation of this monumental piece was no small feat. It cost £90,000 and involved intricate, technically challenging work. As described by BBC News reporter Rebecca Jones, the construction was akin to threading giant ceramic beads onto a metal pole, a process that required both precision and creativity.
The Earth Goddess is part of the Austell Projects – Whitegold Art Trail, a series of 18 newly commissioned public artworks. These sculptures reflect the historic china clay industry that once thrived in St Austell, serving as a bridge between the town's past and its future. The curator of the Austell Projects, Alex Murdin, emphasized that the trail aims to encourage people to see their town differently and think differently about their place within it.
Sandy Brown's motivation for creating the Earth Goddess was deeply personal. She wanted the sculpture to make an impact and chose a female form to address the lack of large-scale female representations in public art. Brown's inspiration also stemmed from her mother's experiences of gender-based criticism, making the Earth Goddess a powerful symbol of female empowerment and celebration.
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The Earth Goddess has not been without its controversies. Local Member of Parliament Steve Double noted that 90% of the comments he received about the sculpture were negative, and he chose not to attend its official unveiling. On the other hand, St Austell town councillor Richard Pears appreciated the sculpture, stating that art's purpose is to provoke thought and discussion. A sculpture that nobody gave a damn about would be a complete waste of everybody's time, he remarked, highlighting the value of art that sparks conversation.
Local church leaders, however, condemned the sculpture, describing it as “idolatrous” and calling for its renaming or removal. Sandy Brown, unaccustomed to such criticism, compared the negative reception to the initial reactions faced by other iconic sculptures like Anthony Gormley's Angel of the North and works by Barbara Hepworth. She remains optimistic that, in time, people will grow to love the Earth Goddess, much like these other once-controversial pieces.
A visit to St Austell is incomplete without experiencing the Earth Goddess. As you approach the town square, the sculpture's towering presence is impossible to miss. Its vibrant colors and imposing height draw you in, inviting you to explore its details up close. Each circle of clay is adorned with intricate patterns and colors, making every angle a new discovery.
Standing beneath the Earth Goddess, you can't help but feel a sense of awe. The sculpture's outstretched arms seem to embrace the sky, and its vibrant colors breathe life into the urban landscape. It's a perfect spot for photography, sketching, or simply sitting and pondering the artistic and cultural significance of this modern marvel.
As St Austell continues to evolve, the Earth Goddess stands as both a beacon of change and a guardian of tradition. It challenges visitors and locals alike to reconsider their perceptions of art, gender, and community. Whether you find it beautiful, provocative, or controversial, there's no denying that the Earth Goddess has already made a lasting impact on St Austell's cultural landscape.
In conclusion, the Earth Goddess is more than just a sculpture; it's a symbol of transformation, a tribute to heritage, and a catalyst for conversation. Its towering presence and vibrant colors make it a must-see for anyone visiting St Austell. So, next time you find yourself in this charming Cornish town, take a moment to stand in the shadow of the Earth Goddess and let its powerful presence inspire you.
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