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despite being a shade late I thought I would make my submission anyway. My name is Matthew Billington and I am sculptor, I work mostly, but not exclusively, in stone. I have been commissioned a number of times to install decorative monoliths and benches in parks and colleges ranging from South Wales to Sheffield and Leeds. The bench I propose for you is an octagonal design with an open space in the centre. It would be created as a wooden construction with eight stone panels (as seen in attachment JenHironsBench). Myself and art colleague Ryan Morley designed and built this first version. We were commissioned to make it as a memorial for a member of staff at Eccles Community College. We have always felt that the design had huge potential to be taken on to another level. In the original, one of the stone panels was engraved by myself with a Knotwork inspired tree and the name of the much loved member of staff. It was apparent, though, what great effect could be created by working on all of the panels to create a continuous flow of engraving around the entire bench. The design we have in mind would be satirical in nature, examining the "corporate interest" undermining of democracy; how the power of money is used control not only election processes but the leaders themselves once elected. This would be represented using symbols such as pounds and dollars, oil barrels, puppets and warfare to create a continuous circular story. We felt this makes a much more pertinent and relevant comment on democracy than the tired and threadbare process we have become so familiar with. The awareness of hidden interests, corruption within politics and uncompromising greed has reached such a high level within the public consciousness that a straight representation of democracy we felt would seem dated and naive. We are the people to make your bench because of the enthusiasm with which we undertake all our projects, most especially when given the opportunity for social comment. We work with professional competence earned from years of experience. Ryan's skill with graphic design and my own at the workshop level along with our many years of collaboration and cooperation make us an excellent team to achieve artistic/practical goals. Budget Breakdown Materials 500 Workshop and tool hire 500 Construction Labour 1000 Engraving 500 Total 2500 The ambitious nature and scale of the design would require a stretch of the budget but one that return great value and a worthy end-product. The price indicated is a realistic one given our previous experience, in fact it requires our subsidising the engraving side of things but given the social importance of the commentary and prominent location within a London park we are keen do this. Installation can be inclusive as long as the local authority are able to provide a level area of existing hard-standing. The original bench was 8 feet in diameter but this could be reduced to fit the location if necessary. I have attached an image of our original octagonal bench and some examples of our other works. We would be glad to answer any inquiries you may have and hope to hear from you soon. Kind regards M.Billington and R.Morley Bird and Bee Dragonstone |
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