Public consultation leads to new site for Bryan Kneale's sculpture

In the Isle of Man, the proposed site for Bryan Kneale's Eelips sculpture has been shifted following public feedback. Initially intended for installation in front of the café at Niarbyl, concerns raised during a public consultation in February prompted the project team to seek an alternative location. The sculpture will now be installed at the Tynwald National Park and Arboretum in St John's, a decision welcomed by Kneale's daughter, Kate Kneale, who participated in the consultation process. She emphasized the positive input from the community regarding her father's vision for the artwork, which aims to honor the local landscape. Set to be unveiled in mid-2025, the Eelips sculpture is an ambitious project for Bryan Kneale, who has had a prestigious career in sculpture since leaving Douglas as a young man. The project is financially supported by various sources, including a £60,000 grant from the Isle of Man Arts Council, funded through the lottery, as well as contributions from the Frampton Fund, Culture Vannin, and the Kneale family. The total projected cost for the artwork stands at approximately £97,000. This funding structure reflects the local interest in supporting the arts, particularly projects that resonate with the Manx community. The Eelips sculpture, which will stand at 8.2 feet (2.5 meters) tall, will embody modern artistic expressions made from duplex stainless steel, mirroring the ancient cross stones that are iconic in the Manx landscape. Kneale's goal for this installation is to fulfill a long-held aspiration to create a visible piece of art that contributes to the cultural heritage of the Isle of Man. As a prolific artist, Kneale's legacy includes works displayed in significant institutions worldwide, enhancing local pride in his achievements and reinforcing the importance of contemporary sculpture within the island's artistic offerings. This change in location highlights the impact of community engagement on public art projects, demonstrating how citizen feedback can shape initiatives and influence decision-making processes. The transition from Niarbyl to St John's not only respects public sentiment but also enhances the sculpture's accessibility and visibility within a historically significant park. As the 94-year-old artist prepares for this major undertaking, the anticipation for the Eelips unveiling reflects a vibrant interaction between art, community, and environment that will resonate long after its installation.