
Unveiling the Artistry: Laura Ellen Bacon’s Willow Installation
In an enchanting union of nature and architecture, Laura Ellen Bacon’s latest installation, "Into Being," transforms the historic Chapel at Yorkshire Sculpture Park into a living work of art. Running from April 5th to September 7th in 2025, this monumental sculpture is entirely made from hand-woven Somerset willow, harmonizing with the chapel's tall stone walls and creating an immersive experience.
Embracing Nature: A Living Structure
The installation reaches an impressive six meters into the nave and ascends three meters up the chapel walls, its organic form echoing the shapes of nature — seed pods, cocoons, and burrows. Visitors are invited to step inside this living organism, experiencing its intimate folds and learning about the artist’s philosophy. Bacon describes it as both invasive and protective, a duality that captures the viewer’s attention and evokes a sense of wonder.
Craftsmanship rooted in Tradition
Bacon employs an ancient technique of willow weaving, yet her approach is refreshingly contemporary. Each twist and knot in the willow speaks to her artistic journey over two decades. By utilizing branches from fallen beech trees found within the park, her sculpture embodies the philosophy of place-based making. This connection between art and the environment not only elevates the visual impact but also grounds the installation within the local ecology.
Interplay of Light and Scent: A Sensory Experience
One of the most remarkable aspects of Bacon’s work is its sensory dimension. As sunlight filters through the chapel windows, it alters the perception of the sculpture, allowing it to change with the passing day. The willow’s natural aroma adds to the experience, inviting visitors to engage with the art on multiple levels. "There is so much willow, and it has a beautiful aroma… the light changes the work throughout the day," Bacon notes, highlighting her intent to make this a rich sensory adventure.
A Sustainable Artistic Statement
Upon the exhibition’s conclusion, the materials will be dismantled, returning to the earth and supporting local wildlife — a true testament to sustainable art practices. Bacon’s installation serves not only as an aesthetic endeavor but as a profound commentary on our relationship with nature, and a call to honor and preserve our environment.
The Emotional Pulse of Sculpture
What resonates deeply with those who encounter "Into Being" is the emotional landscape it creates. It’s a sculpture that feels alive, a dialogue between artist, material, and space that invites reflection on human instincts and connectivity with the natural world. Visitors leave not just with memories of its grandeur, but with a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance between artistry and nature.
This installation isn’t merely about observation; it’s about participation. As you stand within the sculpture, you are enveloped in Bacon’s artistic world, reminding us of the beauty of both the crafted and the natural.
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