An IT technician at the University of Worcester has turned his hand to sculpting.
Following a period of ill health Richard Surtees discovered a new passion for art. He has now produced a number of sculptures, the latest of which was created using old sports equipment being discarded by the University.
‘Dedication’ is made of 45 paddle bats and 12 Lacrosse sticks and boasts the Olympic rings on its chest. “I had the idea to create a life-size sculpture and wanted it to be a person,” said 47-year-old Richard. “When I saw the sports department were getting rid of these bats and Lacrosse sticks I snapped them up and started putting them together to create this piece.”
Richard, who has worked at the University of Worcester for 11 years, added: “This piece represents dedication. Whether that’s dedicated to family, work, an ambition or living life to the full.”
The sculpture took about three months to piece together and Richard is now looking for a home for it. “With the Olympics coming up it would be great to get it displayed somewhere that might inspire the future athletes,” he said.
Richard, from Warndon, Worcester, has sold five sculptures in the two years since taking up the hobby and has exhibited his work in several locations.
University of Worcester press release.