Artist selling three-metre high sculpture in support of Wicksteed Park appeal

An artist is showing his support for Wicksteed Park by selling one of his sculptures which stands at three metres high on eBay.

Mick Henson was devastated when he heard that the company which operates the Kettering park's leisure facilities had gone into administration.

In 2006 he was given the opportunity of a studio at Barton Hall, which was then owned by the Wicksteed Trust, and has had great support from the park ever since.

Mick from Wollaston told the Northants Telegraph: "They became very interested in my work and wanted to display my sculptures in the park, which was beneficial for both of us.

"This gave me a great venue to exhibit my work to the local community and visitors from all over the country.

"I’ve had at least one sculpture in the park on display for over the past 14 years."

Several people have advised Mick to remove his sculptures from the park, but he said: "I feel this is not the time to take away my support after all the support and encouragement I’ve received over the years.

"I’ve decided to help raise money for the park by selling my Nordic Walking sculpture."

Mick chose this sculpture because he says it has been a big part of his life, including being the first sculpture he made as a full-time artist.

The solid steel structure stands at three metres high with a base of 100cm by 235cm.

Mick added: "She’s had an interesting life exhibited at Wicksteed Park, Woburn Abbey Gardens, Billing Aquadrome as well as being on Pokemon Go, to name a few.

"I realise at just over three meters tall it’s not for your average garden but I’m hoping someone will find a home for her and get as much enjoyment from the sculpture as I’ve had and still do.

"I feel so passionate about trying to raise funds for the park I’ve now joined social media, something I thought I’ll never do, to try and promote the sale."

Mick said 100 per cent of the proceeds from the sale will be donated to Wicksteed Charitable Trust to try and save the park.

The sculpture has already had more than 30 bids on eBay, but none have reached the reserve price yet.

If you'd like to bid for the Nordic Walking sculpture, click hereTo see more of Mick's work, click here

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