Artwork marks local response to pandemic

The installation, named Together as One, was designed by local artist Mark Cook, who also sculpted the Quay’s Victor Hugo statue, the Market Square donkey and the Spirit of Liberation at Visitor Information Centre.

‘During the first lockdown I started to think about a sculptural installation that reflected the way that Guernsey has responded to the pandemic,’ he said.

‘All artists find inspiration from the world around them and the events that affect their lives. In recent times there has been no bigger event than Covid and as an artist I felt I needed to create a response.’

Revealing the sculpture was Health Practitioner nurse Jo Rocha, who administered the first vaccine dose in the island.

‘Other pieces I have done have been hands-on sculptures, but this is more about the designing. It’s a conceptual piece,’ said Mr Cook.

On each side of the sculpture is a crest of the main Bailiwick islands – Guernsey, Alderney, Herm and Sark.

Three parallel lines have been carved into the concrete base, which Mr Cook said was an intentional design aspect.

‘They represent the population at large, industry and the function of the States. All the lines are equal and in harmony.’

Three local businesses were involved in the construction, led by Bryony Vivien of Guernsey Glass Craft, who produced the stained glass.

Granite Le Pelley design and purchasing manager Lyndon Fox was responsible for the granite base, and Adrian Tourtel, managing director of Stainless Steel Fabrications, was responsible for overseeing the manufacture of the jig that the panels fit into.

‘Very early on I decided that any components used for the installation would be created on-island as a means of helping local business as they recovered from lockdowns,’ said Mr Cook.

Beau Sejour was chosen to showcase the piece because it is easily accessible, and is where most islanders have received their vaccinations doses.