Mission Picture Gallery: the River of Life
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The Bridge Street redevelopment known as "The River of Life" was opened by the Duchess of Kent, November 1996. The artist chosen for the work was sculptor Steve Broadbent, and he involved the pupils of 12 local schools in the creation of his grand design. The River of Life, which is a winding feature down the centre of Upper Bridge Street, is based on the geographical flow of the River Mersey as it travels through the borough. Using local children had a dual effect - not only were given a sense of ownership, but also their studies of nature, conservation, geography and local history were enhanced. The children were asked to choose 12 different types of trees that grow locally, measure their growth and collect their leaves and fruits, copies of which were to be an integral part of the 12 bronze plaques which are set in the pavement of upper Bridge Street. Each tree representing a different month of the year is inlaid into the one metre diameter bronze plaques. Th plaques express the passage of time and represent the geographical location of each participating school as well as referring to the many industries that have thrived in Warrington since Roman Times. Many other elements of the scheme have involved young people including the relief design of the water feature and the hands cast in the design, a procedure - "Hands in History" - that was achieved in the Mission. |
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