Close Window >

River Benches by Zoë Cull and Alex Evans

Three hand-carved benches in Portland stone by Zoë Cull and Alex Evans reflect the theme of a 'swirling stream' in both their form - the meandering curves of slate and rippled surfaces - and in the lines of poetry exquisitely carved into the stone.

The bench with slate inlay suggests the languid atmosphere of a river winding through summer meadows, with the slate 'water' slipping gently over the 'falls' at the ends of the seat. The split bench represents the geological impact of the river on the landscape, literally carving the land as it goes and the bench with the hole makes visual reference to the ripples caused by a stone being dropped in the water.

'The benches are intended to provoke thought and to provide inspiration and pleasure to those who use them. The forms and textures of the pieces is important and users are very much encouraged to touch them.' (Zoë Cull)

The lines of poetry were written by poet-in-residence Rose Flint and are integral to the finished benches. The appearance of each bench relates specifically to the lines of poetry inscribed on it and provokes thought about both the overt meaning of the words and also the deeper underlying sentiments.

'Where hares race over primrose and trefoils and trout snooze beside rushes...'

'The shining river winds through green hills...'

'Rivers of life connecting us all in circles of brightness...'

(Some of the poetry written by Rose Flint and inscribed on the seats)