Renowned artist helps students make their mark on Redcar seafront
By Redcar Cleveland College published 1 February, 2012 No Comments
Ian Randall (above) with two students of Redcar & Cleveland College, Jessica Harding (above) & Emma Keeling (above)
Students have designed mini sculptures that are to become a permanent feature of a seaside town with the help of renowned sculptor Ian Randall.
The Art & Design students at Redcar & Cleveland College have produced stainless steel casts as part of a new paving design on the soon to be revamped Redcar seafront.
Contemporary sculptor Ian is playing an integral role in the regeneration and is about to start work on two 6m-high touch post sculptures, standing at 1000m apart, that will become landmark features on the promenade.
“Each of the students’ pieces will be a unique and individual object, personal to both themselves and their relationship with the town,” said Ian.
“I’ve really enjoyed working with the students, they are all very creative and have come up with some fantastic ideas.
“One student who is really into fishing has incorporated a lead weight used in angling into his design – it took quite a while to find the right size and style but it’s all set to go now and he is really pleased with his final design.”
Ian said he came up with his idea for the two touch post sculptures after talking to local residents who told him about their daily 1000m strolls between two touch posts on Redcar beach many years ago.
The students, who have enjoyed two workshop seminars from Ian, have explored the metal casting process from start to finish and cannot wait to see their final designs in place.
Jessica Harding, 18, from Redcar said: “It’s been a great experience working alongside Ian to create my mini sculpture and I’m really excited to see my final piece on the seafront.”
Emma Keeling, 18, from Marske-by-the-sea said: “It’s an honour being part of something so big that’s going to be around for decades to come.”
Ian added: “I want visitors who come to the promenade to stop and stare at the stainless steel casts and question what they are seeing.
“There will be over 250 mini sculptures by college students, primary school children and local residents, so there will certainly be a lot to look at.”
College course leader Meg Ashley said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for the students to be part of a permanent public art sculpture, which they can show their children and grandchildren in the years ahead.
“We are really proud of our students and the work they have produced. We hope their sculptures will be admired for many generations to come.”
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