House of Commons Event Celebrates Local Artist's Work
8 August 2012
Pauline Latham MP, Professsor John Coyne and Paul Cummins
We're absolutely thrilled that Paul's work is part of such a significant cultural event and that its prominent position on Cromwell Green means so many people can enjoy it
”Professor John Coyne, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby.
Paul Cummins English Flower Garden Sculptures on Parliament's Cromwell Green.
Local artist and University of Derby graduate Paul Cummins was guest of honour at a special event held at the House of Commons in London to celebrate his unique English Flower Garden sculpture - situated on Parliament's Cromwell Green.
Paul's sculpture of hundreds of hand-thrown ceramic flowers mounted on metal structures is part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad,the largest cultural celebration in the history of the modern Olympic and Paralympic Movements.
The event held on Monday 6 August was hosted by the University and Pauline Latham MP and saw guests from organisations including Arts Council England, LOCOG, Derby City Council and the Victoria and Albert Museum come together to admire Paul's work.
Since graduating in 2010 with a 2:1 class BA (Hons) Crafts degree, Paul has become known for his distinctive landscape installations, with his work featuring exuberant flower glazes.
Within the last three years he has been commissioned to create large-scale installations for the Duke of Devonshire's (University Chancellor) Chatsworth House,Derby Royal Hospital, the Alscot Country Estate, Castle Howard in York, The Secret Gardens of Sandwich in Kent, Blenheim Palace and The Conran Shop in London, but this latest commission is arguably his most high-profile to date.
Commenting on being part of the Cultural Olympiad, Paul Cummins said: "I'm delighted with the fantastic response to my latest works featured as part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad and have been overwhelmed by the worldwide messages I have received! Yesterday's event, generously hosted by the University of Derby and Pauline Latham MP, gave me an opportunity to give thanks to those who have continuously supported me."
Professor John Coyne, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby, added: "We're absolutely thrilled that Paul's work is part of such a significant cultural event and that its prominent position on Cromwell Green means so many people can enjoy it.
"We're always extremely proud of our graduates and what they go on to achieve and Paul's success is a true testament to his passion, dedication and extraordinary talent."
The sculpture is part of six English Flower Garden installations commissioned by the Unlimited Programme, part of the Cultural Olympiad. Each installation celebrates the quintessential British love of flowers and has been created on the basis of its historic relationship with each location.
For further information on Paul Cummins and his work visit: www.paulcumminsceramics.co.uk
