In 2016 Dartmouth Mayflower 400 commissioned the Sculptor, Mark Gregory to make a sculpture in collaboration with the Students of Dartmouth Academy. Through many discussions between Nicola Perrott, the Director of Learning and Head of the Art Department at Dartmouth Academy, and Lindsay Ellwood, Education Lead for Dartmouth Mayflower 400, it was agreed the sculpture would take the shape of a Pilgrim.
Mark originally studied painting, but started making sculptures in 1995, when he discovered the combination of strength and malleability of metal when heated. He has completed numerous public commissions and exhibited all over the country.
The framework was completed earlier this year with the Academy pupils having created the copper panels in workshops during September.
The framework is made of galvanised steel, and the pupils’ copper panels will be riveted to the framework. Each panel corresponds to an area of the figure, such as a section of the cloak, and the pupils will create raised images relating to the Mayflower Story, using the repoussé method, which involves hammering on the reverse side of the copper. The Sculpture will stand just under two metres tall.
The sculpture will be installed on Dartmouth’s South Embankment on Friday 11th October 2019 as a permanent sculpture for the town marking part of the Mayflower Trail, with the unveiling to be carried out by our Mayor, Graham Webb.
Following this, there will also be an accompanying photographic exhibition of its creation held in The Flavel until the 3rd November
We are delighted to have had the support of South Hams District Council, Dartmouth Town Council and the Dartmouth Green Partnership amongst others in completing this legacy project as part of the Mayflower commemorations.
Image use consent (U18) has/will been obtained for images in photo library and for children attending event on Friday at the Flavel.
For link to image library or more information on Dartmouth Mayflower 400 please contact Laura Campbell : marketing@dartmouthmayflower400.uk Tel: 07880 744900
https://www.dartmouthmayflower400.uk/projects/sculpture-project/
https://markgregoryart.weebly.com/
Dartmouth Mayflower 400 is one of the 11 UK compact towns engaged in the Mayflower 400 commemoration.
The volunteers who make up our team are creating a legacy around the Mayflower Story to provide regional activities and experiences. Working with our national (Mayflower 400) and international partners (Plimouth 400 & Mayflower 400 Leiden) we are telling Dartmouth’s Mayflower story to those who want to revisit their Mayflower Roots or simply come to explore our glorious region. These activities aim to engage the local Town and the River Dart communities, reinforcing pride in our rich Maritime Heritage.
