'Trails with Tales' open's to the public

It has been over three weeks now and the three sculptures have all been sited and open to the public.

The installation of the stonework has not taken that long and the fitting and fixing has been straightforward. It has been beneficial being in the park over the last few weeks as I have had a chance to meet with some characters who regularly use the park and who have helped in informing other park users to the nature of the work and its significance to the site.

What has taken longer than expected is the cleaning and polishing of the Kilkenny. I’ve wanted each sculpture to be treated differently and to look like it has been created from a different stone type. This has been successful and I have been pleased, especially with the ‘Life of A Leaf’ Sculpture.

However keeping the stone free of marks before managing to get the anti – graffiti sealant on has been logistically tricky. The stone has to be clean, dry and dust free before application. As I was getting to the park early in the morning the stone would be damp from the moisture in the air, so after a few coffees and waiting for the sun to be strong enough to dry the stone required me to remain patient. I always have to remind myself that after having spent so long working the stone that the installation is a vital element for the sculptures to work and this process should not be rushed. Depending on location, the ‘get in’ and ‘get out’ aspect of installing a sculpture might work for some artists and some times the least disruption created is essential, but a little longer time seems to be unavoidable for stone sculptors!

The one observation I get to appreciate because of being able to go form one sculpture to the next while at the park is witnessing the interaction the public has with the work. It’s been great seeing people take photos and have photos taken next to the sculptures. My only concern now that the sculptures have bedded into the surroundings is the change in colour of some of the lighter coloured blocks of Kilkenny, as the dogs have taken a liking to the stone!! Even though the sealant should prevent any staining I have to explore other treatments with the limestone otherwise I may find myself spending even more time up the park walking around with a packet of cleaning wipes!!