I have spent the past fortnight exhibiting four years of work at the Mall Galleries, London. There are so many people who have contributed to the success of Life in Bronze. They made the experience of showing at each private view so memorable. We managed to pack in three events each week, beginning with our extremely well-attended opening night.
As well as familiar faces like the art critic Edward Lucie Smith, there were also new appearances like Philip Mould. People arrived through the whole day and many got to the opening early. Our first private view completely exceeded all our expectations!
The following night was dedicated to a charity I am passionate about, the Tusk Trust. Without charities like Tusk I would not be able to find animals to sculpt in their natural habitat. We hosted trustees Deborah Meaden and Kate Silverton, along with the CEO, Charlie Mayhew. Then on Thursday night, we were joined by Lycetts who also raise funds and awareness for Tusk.
Meanwhile, there was a steady flow of visitors to the Mall Galleries throughout the day. Their response to my work was overwhelming. There is so much to show as I have been busy! It never ceases to surprise me which sculptures resonate the most with individuals. Everyone had their favourite.
We kicked off our second week with an event hosted by the Countryside Alliance, Roxtons and Country Life Magazine. We raised funds for ‘keeping things real in the British countryside’. The next evening was hosted by Waverton Investments for the charity Clic Sargent. This was a rewarding experience and also a great focal point for Waverton to engage with donors.
Our final event was with Steppes Travel, Haynes Hanson & Clark, and Hampden. They were also collectively raising awareness and funds for Tusk Trust. It is largely thanks to these forward-thinking travel companies that I can do what I do. The many field trips that Steppes have facilitated have allowed my practice to evolve. And furthermore, my repertoire of animals has consequently expanded.
I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who made Life in Bronze such a great success. The whole team at the Mall Galleries were so professional. Fine art handlers Aston Spinks installed several tonnes of plinths and bronzes effortlessly. Not to mention their moving the Andalusian Stallion sculpture to the Mall! Haynes Hanson and Clark provided us all with constantly-flowing drinks, and Davina Logsdon’s catering was delicious. Justerini and Brooks provided the drinks for our event with the Tusk Trust. The talented photographer Chris Floyd documented this incredible journey. Most of all I have to thank Belinda and the amazing Mrs Mackie for all their hard work.
