Sculpture Trail
“Sculpture invites us to spend time with it and to consider our role in this place at this time.” - Sir Antony Gormley. These sculptures were made using beach and forest litter collected by the Year 6 children and families of MOSPS. They were reinforced with Modroc plaster bandage and painted by the Year 6 children. They represent issues relevant to our place at this time.
Over the last few weeks of the summer term, the Year 6 children at Milford-on-Sea Primary School (MOSPS) worked hard to create life-sized sculptures that form a captivating ‘sculpture trail’ around Milford village and coast. Inspired by the renowned artist Sir Antony Gormley, who said, “sculptures make you aware of the world, and your time and place in it; they are in the world - they change the world and contribute to it,” we aim to raise awareness about local environmental issues through the art.
Milford-on-Sea is a coastal community facing the potential of a 1-meter sea level rise before the end of the century, when the children will be 80, presenting challenges such as habitat loss and erosion. The children, aware of these issues and inspired by environmental activist Greta Thunberg, chose to create standing sculptures holding placards that display messages about climate change and local environmental issues. This project aligns with their studies on the theme of ‘Gamechangers’ and reflects their commitment to making a difference. The children aim to inspire urgent action in the fight against climate change.
The sculptures were constructed using litter collected from the beach and forest by the children. They were then bulked out with recycled materials, covered in Modrock plaster bandages, and painted. To ensure durability, they were reinforced with weatherproof varnish. The children worked in groups of six, dedicating one hour per day over three weeks to complete this project.
Thanks to permissions granted by the environment agency and the parish council, these sculptures will be displayed throughout the summer, offering residents and visitors a unique trail to explore. The trail is designed to both engage the community and highlight the creativity and environmental consciousness of the students. You may find me fixing and maintaining the sculptures over the summer as I continue to protect them against the rain and wind!
We want to thank Dr. Priest, Mr. Lloyd, Mrs. Coles, All Saints Church, Force4Chandlery, the Parish Council, and the Hurst Spit to Lymington Flood and Coast Erosion Strategy Team for their support with this project.
We invite everyone to watch a video explaining the project: Y6 Gamechanger Sculpture Project Video.
For more information about coastal erosion and protection, please visit: Hurst Spit to Lymington Strategy Overview.