Gathering with Strangers, Embracing Diversity

 

Wendy’s idea for this specially commissioned sculpture emerged from the intimate ambiance of the theatre, where individuals gather in dim light, surrounded by strangers, each with their own identities, their own genetic make-up. This sculpture embodies the profound experience of shared presence, where differences, whether visible or invisible, dissolve into the collective embrace of the moment – the connection, the being, overrides all.

Wendy explains “At the outset of this project for Oxford University, I experienced the unfortunate event of fracturing my ankle, which led to spending the summer in a wheelchair. This challenging situation opened my eyes to a different perspective, allowing me to understand the difficulties faced by others who have limited mobility and cannot easily view objects of interest. It turned out to be a fortunate accident, aligning this perfectly with the essence and intentions of my project, creating a more accessible visual experience for all – the initial height for the lowest plinth being the same as my eye height whilst seated in a wheelchair”.

Wendy’s considered use of colour within this sculpture is key – the delicious desirability of the translucent shades of the figures are reminiscent of boiled sweets, evoking happy childhood memories. Everyone loves boiled sweets, everyone is unique and everyone is beautiful.

The selected complementary colour hues do not carry any specific symbolic, social or gendered meanings. Instead, they aim to embrace all ideologies and beliefs that are also reflected in the Department of Economics logo suggesting themes of equality, diversity, and inclusion.

The carefully considered composition of the sculpture also echoes the ethos of The Department of Economics commitment to inclusion – the figures linking to one another by their positioning within the group – not turning their backs to anyone looking in, allowing the viewer to feel included, like they too could join the seated group.

 

PROJECT SPONSORS