30 April - 17 July 2005
West Dean, where nearly a century ago Edward VII and his Court spent many weekends in the West Sussex countryside, will, from 1 May until 17 July, once again be the setting for figures of mystery and intrigue when the first ever sculpture exhibition is staged in its award-winning Gardens. The exhibition is included in the Gardens admissions price but there will be other special events over the coming months, including a picnic and moonlit walk through the Gardens with the artist (6.00-9.30pm, 14 June) and a lecture by the artist (7.30pm, 27 June). Special events tickets are £7 and are available from West Dean Gardens visitor centre and Chichester Tourist Information Centre.
Philip Jackson, MA, FRBS, FRSA, was selected for West Dean's debut into the world of sculpture exhibitions by Dr Sharon-Michi Kusunoki (Director of the 4th International Symposium on Surrealism which takes place at West Dean College 13-15 May).
Jackson's ability to convey human feelings and frailties by the skilful use of body language is well known. Dividing his time between personal creations and commissions, mainly for public spaces, the two disciplines within which he works could not be more different. His gallery pieces are steeped in theatricality and, though few figures have faces, they nevertheless convey an extraordinary range of emotions; his fascination with Venice is clearly reflected, as is his interest in things ecclesiastical. Jackson's public sculptures - of which there are six in London alone - record significant people or events of our time; as bronze is virtually indestructible, each piece will stand for centuries, testament to our place in history.
“Philip Jackson's work connects the artistic traditions of Italy and Britain in an evocative and surreal manner, reflecting an important aspect of the historic interior and decorative art collection at West Dean College and the aesthetic interests of Edward James.
“We are honoured that Philip has agreed to show his internationally acclaimed work in our award-winning gardens and to exhibit an exquisite range of his maquettes in our new Sussex Barn Gallery,” said West Dean College Principal Robert Pulley.