Entrain Space, the veterans’ campus at the former Erskine Barracks in Wilton near Salisbury, is pleased to announce the donation and installation of The Transformers, an original sculptural artwork by renowned ceramic artist Christie Brown. Originally shown as part of a major exhibition in Wapping Hydraulic Power Station in 2000, this important work will now be permanently housed at Entrain Space as part of the inner courtyard.
The artwork was generously donated by Martin and Muriel Mitcheson and expertly installed by Messum’s art gallery.
A private event welcoming the new artwork to Entrain Space was attended by donors Martin and Muriel, the artist Christie Brown herself, and Wilton Town Mayor Cllr Alexandra Boyd, along with Entrain Space Trustees, members of the team and several resident veterans; a commemorative plaque was unveiled at the event.
Artwork donors Martin and Muriel Mitcheson said:
“We were inspired by Entrain Space’s mission to help veterans transition to a civilian life and feel a sculpture that deals reflectively with issues around change and transformation is a fitting gift. Entrain Space impressed us with its aims to provide accommodation for veterans together with opportunities for new learning experiences and movement out into the wider society. The project has energy and flexibility with high ideals but a strong sense of reality.
“Our professional backgrounds in psychiatry, criminology, sociology and psychoanalysis have brought us in contact with a range of social problems and needs over many years and we believe strongly in the value of initiatives that combine a measure of individual help with group support and links to the community.
“We have both been modest collectors of art for many decades and believe that art enhances lives and can reach out to people in important ways, offering new perspectives as well as giving aesthetic satisfaction.
“The Transformers is a visually exciting sculpture that evokes images of the past and of creation, but also challenges our futures. We are delighted to see it installed at Entrain Space where is can be seen and appreciated by many in the coming years.”
Christie Brown said:
“The key idea behind the making of The Transformers was to offer hope and healing through a transformational experience. I hope the inspiration behind this work can contribute to that process at Entrain Space.”
Matthew Bell, Founder of Entrain Space, said:
“I’m very pleased Entrain Space could acquire this special artwork by Christie Brown. It’s a thought-provoking piece and looks incredible on our courtyard walls, where it’s accessible for everyone at Entrain Space to appreciate and adds to our sense of shared community and quality of environment. My grateful thanks go to Martin and Muriel for the very kind donation.”
