by Katrine ffiske

Sculptor Laurence Edwards is exhibiting for the first time large-scale bronze figurative sculptures and small-scale maquettes and studies at Messums Wiltshire.
The gallery has shown Edwards’ work on and off over the years, a few pieces at a time, but this is his first solo show – the culmination of ten years’ work – and the largest exhibition of his sculptures to date.
He talked about his work to a large number of art lovers in the Tithe Barn at Messums in Tisbury, a peaceful crowd gathered around a ‘Tribe’ of giant bronze ‘Walking Men’ striding through the ancient building.
Johnny Messum and Edwards have been friends for many years and Johnny has been a long-time admirer of the sculptor’s work.

“The figures are both post- and pre-industrial,” Edwards said. “We are at a strange time at the moment and many of us are slightly wary and scared about where we are going. Looking at piles of sticks and thinking ‘help, one day I night need those sticks.
“How will we survive if things do go wrong? Working with a figurative language is not very fashionable. Over the years I have been trying to reinvigorate a post-war British sculpture language of the bronze figure, trying to find new meaning in it.”
To some the figures seem like the men are stepping out of the earth picking up sticks and stones on their way. To others they have a war-like quality – are the men emerging from the trenches?
Edwards admitted he had a fascination with First World War photographs but he is not precious about his work and encourages and enjoys hearing how others perceive the sculptures – and occasionally takes their ideas away with him.
On display in the smaller gallery are the ideas and working studies which relate to the main body of work in the barn. The show continues until Friday 16 October.