Last updated at 09:28, Friday, 19 March 2010

A life-size interpretation of the Crucifixion and a surrealist painting called ‘Ascension’ are being exhibited at Carlisle Cathedral.

Title
Author
Copyright

Description

Both pieces of work, by local artist Ian McMean, are already attracting attention from visitors.

Ian, 71, of Brampton, set out to make his £4,000 sculpture a stark reminder of the horrors of crucifixion, rather than a romantic effigy.

He said: “I want people to think about man’s inhumanity to man.”

But the painting is intended to encourage gentle, spiritual reflection upon the basis of Christianity.

The Very Reverend Mark Boyling, Dean of Carlisle, hopes people will take the opportunity to examine any feelings the art provokes.

He said: “Times of political and social upheaval as well as personal traumas have led artists down the years to use the Crucifixion to explore some of the fundamental issues of human experience.

“Ian McMean’s two works on display during Passiontide, Holy Week and Easter Week can help us connect with these issues and prompt us to explore our faith. They allow us to ask questions and take steps towards deeper understanding.”

Although he is perhaps best known for his landscapes, Ian plans to spend the next year creating art with a religious theme.

He admits to not being overly enamoured with some aspects of organised religion, but says his deep personal faith has always been a source of inspiration.

Ian added: “Even if people don’t like what I do it will get them talking and that’s what I’m trying to do.

“If somebody came up to me in the pub and told me I was a right prat it would be quite upsetting, but if somebody came up to me and said my painting or sculpture was hideous it wouldn’t be.”

Yesterday, the Crucifixion was getting mainly appreciative comments from the public.

Howard Furlong, 53, of Morton Park in Carlisle, told us: “It’s original and it is a perfect representation of what happened.”

Jack Martin, 69, of Durdar, said: “It’s interesting and brings the Crucifixion home to you.”

Becky Crawley, 26, of Port Road in Carlisle, said: “It’s eye-catching. He’s done what he set out to do.”

Suzan Block, 67, of Idaho, USA, said: “I actually like it – it’s very much the Crucifixion. I’m most drawn to the emphasis on the crown of thorns.”

Walter Ewbank, 92, of Castle Street in Carlisle said: “I think it’s rather good, it’s a fine sculpture and it will certainly make people think.”

The Crucifixion and Ascension will be at the cathedral until April 6.

First published at 09:16, Friday, 19 March 2010
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk