‘Ariel’ by Viv Astling is the first sculpture to be exhibited on a new plinth that has been install in the theatre’s Box Office as part of a new project coordinated by the Sculpture and Art Foundation CIC in conjunction with the Lichfield Garrick.

Alex Lloyd, Head of Marketing at the Lichfield Garrick, said: “We are incredibly privileged to invite such high artists to the theatre to add an extra dimension to the artistic experience of our audiences and our community. Lichfield has a rich heritage of art and culture and the plinth complements and helps push forward our commitment to increasing access to the arts.”

Viv’s sculpture, which is made of local stone and Welsh slate, will be on display for two months and is the first such artwork to feature on ‘Plinth 1’ which will have a changing programme of national sculptors work. 

Viv Astling Hon Sec RBSA sculptor commented: “I am delighted to be invited to show a piece of my work in such a prestigious venue.”

Viv has been stone carving for over 30 years having had a life-long interest in sculpture. He was elected a Member of the Royal Birmingham Society of Artists in 2012 and an elected member of the Birmingham Art Circle. Viv has completed three public art commissions including one at the National Memorial Arboretum in Alrewas.

The Sculpture and Art Foundation CIC are a not for profit fine art organisation whose aim is to increase access, participation and understanding of the fine art forms for sculpture and artwork.

The organisation coordinates the City of Sculpture Project and the Lichfield Sculpture Trail alongside working on many projects over the past 10 years around the area. Plinth 1 is the first of a number of new means of accessing the arts locally.

Kathryn Walker, FRAI Sculpture and Art Foundation, said: “The Sculpture and Art Foundation is very proud to be at the Garrick Theatre, bringing international sculptors and artists to the city. Increasing access and opportunities to engage with art of the highest quality in an excellent place to live and work.”

Viv’s sculpture will be on display in the Lichfield Garrick’s Box Office until September 2016. 

For more information about the Sculpture and Art Foundation CIC visit www.sculptureandartfoundation.com