COP26: Eco-friendly sculptures mark historic climate summit in Glasgow and send message of hope for the planet
The Hope Sculpture artworks are being erected in three locations – at the Cuningar Loop Woodland Park, near Rutherglen in South Lanarkshire, and at Central Station and the University of Strathclyde’s Rottenrow Gardens in Glasgow city.
The artworks were designed by artist Steuart Padwick as a lasting reflection and reminder of the global goals of the United Nations climate summit COP26, which was held in Glasgow last month.
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Hide AdA special community event, which will include musical performances, poetry readings and a panel discussion, is being held at Cuningar Loop Woodland Park to mark the occasion.
The main sculpture is a striking 23.5m-tall tower topped by a figure with arms outstretched, which can be seen from from miles around.
The monolith, which is made from eco-friendly and recycled materials, is the UK’s first 100 per cent cement-free concrete superstructure.
Inscribed on it are ‘messages of hope’ from some of Scotland’s best-known writers and poets, including former Makar Jackie Kay, Douglas Stuart, Ali Smith and Andrew O’Hagan, and local children.
The installation symbolises the need for action to cut greenhouse gas emissions and protect the world from runaway climate change.
A ceremony was hosted on Wednesday by Clyde Gateway, part of Scotland’s largest regeneration programme.
Artist Steuart Padwick said: “We all need to address this new global agenda so our young can embrace a future of hope.
“It is very simple, why would anyone want to poison their future?”
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