The Weight of Things
David Bethell
Installed at Pool 3, Keele Woods: Nov 2020
Polystyrene, kiln-dried sand, fibre-glass, paint, wood and Perspex.
Inspired by Rene Magritte’s 1953 painting Clear Ideas, the artist’s intention was to present an impossible physical object that can signify hope in the face of challenging times. Hand-carved in polystyrene, covered in fibre-glass, textured with kiln-dried sand, painted and installed above a wooden frame sunk beneath the lake. The rock appears to float above the water, as if caught in a moment, in a state of flux floating and crashing simultaneously, signifying both hope and despair. It is situated within Keele woodland which is free to access by public footpaths.
Artist Support: Mally Mallinson, Structural Design: Ross Ankers, Support: ARB Tree Care Ltd & Easy Composites Ltd
