Forest of Dean Commission - 14.07.09

David has been commissioned by the Forest of Dean Sculpture Trust to undertake research and produce a new work, opening to the public in summer 2010. The research period is supported by the Forest of Dean District Council and Arts Council England.

David is intrigued by the ex-industrial landscape of the forest, seeing it as "one of choreographed and manipulated tranquillity and contemplation." He is considering the use of ‘gabions’, used for military and land fortification, which he saw in Afghanistan. "I would like to investigate construction techniques, which could provide a structural addition designed to be readily appropriated by the forest environment and a platform to consider the contradictions between human manipulation of landscape and the natural passage of time."

Project Director for the Sculpture Trust, Carolyn Black, commented “This is fantastic news for the Sculpture Trust. David’s work is always sensitive and considerate of the people and the places where he works, and the Trust encourages people to become involved in some way. David will present his proposal to the public in the autumn of 2009, as part of programme of artist’s talks we are planning. We can’t wait to see the outcome!”