Site for sculpture changed after public feedback

A new site has been proposed for a new sculpture by renowned Manx sculptor Bryan Kneale after objections to the original one.

An application to install the 8.2 ft (2.5m) Eelips artwork at the Tynwald National Park and Arboretum in St John's.

It had originally been suggested the piece be placed in front of the cafe at Niarbly, overlooking the surrounding cliffs and bay.

However, a spokesman for the project said that had been changed “following a public consultation”, which was held in February.

The sculpture, which it is hoped will be unveiled in mid-2025, will cost about £97,000, including £60,000 from the Isle of Man Arts Council via a lottery-funded grant.

Funding is also set to be provided by the Frampton Fund, Culture Vannin and the Kneale family.

Born in Douglas in 1930, Kneale left the island as a young man to pursue his career and has works in the collections of prestigious institutions around the world including the Tate Collection, the New York Museum of Modern Art and the National Gallery of Victoria In Australia.

The 94-year-old is also known for having designed the Three Legs of Mann sculpture outside the Isle of Man Airport at Ronaldsway.

He plans for Eelips to be his last sculpture, and the realisation of "a long-held ambition to install an artwork in the Manx landscape".

The modern art sculpture will be made of duplex stainless steel, with its height inspired by the ancient cross stones found around the island.

The sculptor's daughter Kate Kneale, who visited the island to carry out the public consultation, said: "It was lovely to hear the positive responses to my pa's vision.

"The choice of the National Arboretum responds to the feedback given, it is a stunning site and we are excited to be working to realise the project at this location."

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