A PAIR of sculptures by artist Tim Harrisson have been temporarily installed in the grounds of Ely Cathedral.
Harrisson, who is based in Wiltshire, carves natural patterns and forms from local stones such as Portland and Purbeck, creating sculptures that sit naturally in the landscape.
He has had work exhibited all over the UK in grounds and parkland. His most famous commissions include ‘Pegasus’ for Chatsworth House, ‘Sounding’ for the crypt at Winchester Cathedral and a granite sculpture for Southampton Airport
Over recent years’ Ely Cathedral has become increasingly known for its collection of modern art including Jonathan Clarke’s ‘Way of Life’ and David Wynne’s ‘Blessed Virgin Mary’ which overlooks the Lady Chapel.
The two sculptures temporarily on display at Ely include ‘Root’ which is carved from Belgian black limestone, formed some 360 million years ago.
Though free standing, Root appears to be rooted in the ground. It is located, poignantly, opposite the sculpture of St Etheldreda, who founded the monastery in 673AD and represents the roots of Ely Cathedral.
The second sculpture, ‘Bearing’, consists of five standing stones. It has been installed outside the cathedral, on the East Lawn. The stones are carved from Purbeck limestone, laid down around 200 million years ago. Each stone weighs between 250-300kgs and had to be lifted into place by crane.
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