Slate sculptor Terry Hawkins treated locals and visitors to Keswick to a surprise pop-up preview of one of his latest large-scale artworks.
It was displayed for one day only on Derwentwater with the iconic view of Catbells as the backdrop. Now Terry plans other pop-up events over the coming summer months with this and other sculptures displayed at Lake District locations for the general public to see and enjoy.
Terry, 59, whose latest installation is called Spider Crab, said: “When I came up with the design I thought it lends itself to finding a temporary home as a pop-up installation.
“The plan is now to take this sculpture and others on a mini tour of the Lake District — taking in iconic locations which many will recognise.
“If anybody spots them then that is good — but I will have a photographer takings images which I will post on my website and Facebook page so everyone has the chance to view them.
“I want my sculptures to be accessible to all — but security is an issue — so people can catch a glimpse of the art even if it is only for a day.”
It was not an easy task to put the sculpture in place as it is very heavy. Terry managed to drive close to the lake, and then with the help of friends manoeuvred it into position and then removed it later the same day.
Five pieces of his large scale art works are on permanent display at Honister Slate Mine — all made from the Westmorland green slate which is mined there.
Terry is artist in residence at the mine and has developed a unique layering technique, an innovative and original approach, which he combines with traditional methods of slate working.
Terry, was born and brought up in Liverpool, but fell in love with the landscape of the Lake District as a young man. He now lives in Ormskirk, but for the last 12 years has had a static caravan in Keswick and a workshop in Penrith. where he operates his business.
This is Terry’s second career, for many years he managed a social services department helping vulnerable adults and children.
But a period of ill health, mainly stress related, meant he had to rethink his career. He began experimenting with slate sculpture and loved its effects.
It was when he was out and about near Honister that he first saw the wonderful Westmorland slate and knew he wanted to use it in his sculptures.
He’s not the only artist making a splash in the area. The search is on to find the Borrowdale Banksy who has been creating sculptures in the Borrowdale Valley.
