“Buzzard sculpture commissioned by Bristol University for Churchill Hall. A permanent public art installation in the Botanic Garden grounds.”
Commissioned by Bristol University for the Churchill Hall student accommodation site—located within the stunning grounds of the Bristol Botanic Garden—this sculpture acts as a permanent guardian of the landscape.
The Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo) is a familiar sight soaring over the British countryside, known for its patience and keen eyesight. This life-sized stainless steel sculpture captures the raptor in a moment of rest, perched high atop a sleek steel column.
To ensure the bird held its own against the expansive garden and historic architecture, I focused heavily on texture. The wings are constructed from layered steel plates to represent the flight feathers, while the breast utilises a heavy, welded bead technique to mimic the dense, insulating down. This rugged surface catches the frost and snow beautifully (as seen in the photos), proving that stainless steel is the perfect medium for art that must endure the British elements year-round.
