MTL Apprentices have been working hard over the past 3 months, fabricating the nature inspired sculpture, with Artist James Capper working closely with the apprentices and MTL’s Training Manager Jason Reynolds throughout the manufacturing process. This is an exciting opportunity for MTL Apprentices to work with an established artist, collaborating on a project that will be permanently gifted to Rotherham town centre.
The sculpture will stand 8m tall and will be in the shape of a flower. Featuring petals that will react to the movement of light and different weather conditions. Creating a dynamic and continually animated installation. Showcasing the town’s industrial heritage and beautiful green spaces.
MTL’s Training Manager, Jason Reynolds said, “This is an extremely exciting project for our apprentices to have been involved in and it allows them to work on something that everyone in the local community will be able to appreciate. As a company, we pride ourselves on giving back to Rotherham and we believe that this project will be one of many that our Training Academy is involved with.”
The sculpture named ‘Camellia’ is an innovative piece of artwork, paying tribute to Rotherham’s rich industrial heritage and exploring our relationship with nature and our impact on the environment. The sculpture has drawn inspiration from rare flowers that bloom at a historic Rotherham mansion, the flowers were brought to Wentworth Woodhouse in the 18th century.
‘Camellia’ is the ground breaking new artwork developed by internationally acclaimed sculpture James Capper. The project is commissioned by art-promotion body Gallery Town and is jointly funded by Arts Council England and local businesses.
We’re extremely proud of the progress our apprentices have made and the excellent work they’ve produced over the past 3 months. Camellia will be a testament to their hard work and engineering skills they’ve gained during their apprenticeship. The sculpture is set to be unveiled later this year in Rotherham town centre and will move to Forge Island once it is complete.
