Pupils Create Antony Gormley Inspired Sculpture

Artistic pupils at Ely St Mary’s school have created an exciting new art installation – inspired by the sculptures of Antony Gormley.

Year 4 pupils at Ely St Mary’s Church of England Junior School, part of the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust, have recently been learning about the artist, famous for his Angel of the North sculpture, and were eager to create their own artwork.

Each child created their own clay angel, which were then fired in the kiln at Ely College. Working together, the children combined the angels to form a heart, representing hope and a sense of community.

The piece is reminiscent of Gormley’s ‘Field’ art piece, which included thousands of miniature terracotta figures looking back at the viewer, just on a smaller scale.

Year 4 pupil Iolo, who took part in the project, said: “The angels were all different and diverse – one even looked a bit like a chef.

“It was like hundreds of little eyes were watching me, protecting me.”

The sculpture project ran alongside the Bishop of Ely’s Lent Challenge at the school, where the children were asked to design a feather and write on it a message of hope.

The feathers were combined to form a set of rainbow-coloured wings, which children were encouraged to wear and reflect on.

Bishop Stephen Conway visited the school last week to see the feathers and the pupils.

Headteacher Rebecca Ireland-Curtis said the projects had really inspired the children.

“I am extremely proud with how the school community fully embraced the theme of ‘Hope’ from Bishop Stephen’s Lent Challenge,” she said. “It is a theme that embraces all faiths and none and has allowed us to reflect on moving forward from what has been a challenging year for the whole community.

“The projects have enabled both children and staff to consider our pathway to the future which is full of hope and joy.”

Although parents and families cannot come in to see the art piece due to COVID-19 restrictions, the school has created a video, so they don’t miss out.

For more on the Diocese of Ely Multi-Academy Trust, visit www.demat.org.uk

Press release from Ely St Mary’s Church of England Junior School