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‘SPIRIT’
A British sculptor is honoured to commemorate US 9/11 heroism.

This work in limewood by British sculptor Martin Turner commemorates the heroic firefighters of the FDNY (Fire Department New York), and honours all who died or suffered in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.

The sculpture 'SPIRIT' recognises the spirit of so many brave people in the face of appalling difficulty. It is set around the FDNY whose courage and sacrifice could not have been more noble. Their spirit,the spirit of humanity, shines through adversity.

The sculpture features the Manhattan skyline drawn from different viewpoints; the distorted perspective gives the effect of New York teetering. From behind Manhattan a majestic American flag ripples above the city and across the sky.Behind the flag, clouds or smoke are edged with white gold. The gold pattern is formed from the shapes of different countries – a fractured projection of the world.

The Twin Towers take their proper place in the skyline but are, in fact, an image rippling on the flag; a memory.

Beside this surreal imagery are three ‘Brothers’; three firefighters in the struggle to save others and deal with these attacks. Surrounded by an unreal, confused and incomprehensible scene, these ordinary men and women made extraordinary efforts. They stand on insecure rubble, united in their determination; unbeaten even by the fear of death.

The gilded letters FDNY reflect the Twin Towers on the wave crests of the
river Hudson.

SPIRIT is carved in limewood, gilded with different colours of gold and mounted on an aluminium panel painted dark blue to light blue. The finished work is 4 feet 6 inches (137cms) wide by 3 feet 9 inches (114cms) high; the relief is about 4 inches (10cms) deep.

Originally intended for their personal art collection, the patrons Mr and Mrs David Fuller now consider that this sculpture merits a wider audience and are considering donating it for a suitable permanent display. The work’s final destination has yet to be decided; discussions are taking place.

‘These were men of indomitable spirit; it has been
a privilege to work in their shadow’

Martin Turner

‘At the Sign of the Parrot’, 2 The Wilderness, Sherborne, Dorset, UK Telephone (44) 07973 752173 or (44) 01935 812 241
Email martin-turner@theparrot.demon.co.uk
Web www.martin-turner-woodcarver.com