Ostara (Germanic), Ēostre (Old English) and Eástre (Anglo Saxon) (Old English) all seem to have been a heathen higher being – the divinity of the radiant dawn, of upspringing light, whose meaning was adapted to the resurrection-day for Christians, given the symbolism of new life. The coming of Spring sees the return to life of plants and trees that have been dormant for winter, as well as animal-world emergents. For the sculptor, to divest of winter garments and revel in the sunshine was bliss, whilst the alderflies continued their courtship on our warm stone and the clue-hunters set their minds on chocolate eggs.
Thanks to Berkeley Homes, sculpture visitors now have a fine bench from which to survey the proceedings. The stone seems to have sprung another tree form and the Green man type figure continues to seem possible.
Dedicated young apprentice carvers again today. One 4-year old showed remarkable concentration, quietly exploring mallet and chisel for a long period whilst adults chatted with watchful eyes. Generally, teaching entails ensuring safety and then retreating to a slight distance to enable pupils to explore in their own time within their own space.
Do send your own photos (jon@jonedgar.co.uk) if you would like them added to the relevant day you carved, for posterity.
Next carving Weds 24th, SUNDAY(note change) 28th
Horsham Sculpture 