Original artwork description:

Sanctuary is a meditation on the enduring strength and love of a refugee mother as she shields her children from the hardships of war and persecution. Inspired by images of refugees fleeing the Middle East and evoking the poignant symbolism of The Pietà, the sculpture depicts the mother, shrouded in shadow, leaning protectively over her children in a gesture of unwavering care.

The three figures emerge from the enveloping darkness of a nautilus-like womb, its spirals symbolising the infinite journey of resilience and the cyclical nature of life, survival, and hope.

Carved from sycamore wood, chosen for its warm and luminous tones, the material embodies purity and a connection to nature, offering a poignant contrast to the depth of the emotional narrative. Light streams through three openings in the sculpture, illuminating the children’s “faces” and drawing the viewer’s gaze through the darkened, womb-like interior, ultimately emerging into light—a metaphor for hope and renewal.

This sculpture invites contemplation of the universal themes of love and protection in the face of adversity. It serves as both a tribute to those who seek sanctuary and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit—a timeless reminder of hope and the pursuit of a brighter future.

Materials used:

Sustainably sourced Sycamore Wood