Art Funded by you

The Bellringer

Emma Woffenden, 2006

Woffenden is one of Britain's most innovative and intriguing glass artists. The centrepiece of this work is a sculptural piece representing a truncated human figure. It oscillates between being strong and weak, soft and hard, clear and clouded. The paradox continues as the form is suspended, the heavy cast mass becomes weightless as it is frozen before us. The blown glass bells offer familiarity in both form and appearance; the glass makes them clear and sparking yet this quality also makes them invisible. The Bells and Ringer are hung by ropes and the ropes are animated through the human presence represented by the Ringer. The Bellringer combines the artist's renowned androgynous cast forms and tableau composition to create an abstract piece that explores the human condition. Shipley has one of the most significant craft collections and this is the first installation piece acquired for the gallery.

More information

Title of artwork, date

The Bellringer, 2006

Date supported

2010

Medium and material

Glass & rope

Dimensions

310 x 360 x 60 cm

Grant

2500

Total cost

5609

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

Art Funded by you FAQs

Why is this object record marked 'archive'?
Where can I see this work of art? Is it on display?
What is Art Fund's purpose?
How is Art Fund funded?
What type of funding do you offer?
What does the acquisition grants programme support and who can apply?
How many works of art has Art Fund helped museums to acquire?
I’m a curator/researcher/arts professional and would like to find out more about this work, how do I get in touch?
I’m a journalist and would like to contact Art Fund about this work, how do I get in touch?
I would like to donate a work of art to a museum. What do I need to do?
I'd like to leave a gift to Art Fund in my will. How can I do this?

Contact us

If you have a question about a work of art in our archive, please contact the Programmes team. We’ll be happy to answer your enquiry.