‘Three samurai’ arrive at St Andrews

Tuesday 18 May 2004

Striking statues of three samurai warriors were unveiled today at the official opening of a new sculpture garden at the University of St Andrews.

The three figures – the work of prominent Czech sculptor Jan Koblasa – have been erected in the grounds of the School of Art History.

The ‘Three Samurai’ group consists of three figures, ‘The Young Man’, ‘The Young Woman’ and ‘The Warrior’, who stands by a large spear. Koblasa, who is now based in Germany, is well-known on the Continent but the University is thought to be the first public institution in Britain to acquire his work.

The sculptor was a close friend of Ladislav Holy, a former Professor of Social Anthropology at the University (1987-97) and originally designed the works for Professor Holy’s garden. After Professor Holy died, his widow, Kate, presented the sculptures to the University in 1999 in memory of her late husband.

The University was able to conserve the sculptures and create new plinths for them after a major fundraising project raised the necessary funds. The project was generously supported by the Scottish Museums Council as well as donations from alumni and friends of the University, received through the University of St Andrews Appeal Fund.

It is hoped that sculptures by other artists will be added to the garden in the years ahead.

Helen Rawson, Curator of the Museum Collections, said ‘The creation of the sculpture garden provides a wonderful opportunity for Art History students and members of the public to view these exciting and significant contemporary works at close quarters. The tranquil garden setting for the display embellishes the special environment of St Andrews and its University’.

The sculpture garden at 9 The Scores, St Andrews, is open to members of the public. Those with a particular interest may like to visit on Hidden Gardens Day, 27 June 2004, when Professor Ian Carradice, Head of the School of Art History, will give a talk on the history of 9 The Scores.

ENDS

Issued by Beattie Media On behalf of the University of St Andrews Contact Gayle Cook on 01334 467227, mobile 07900 050 103, or email [email protected] Ref: sculpture garden opening pr 170504.doc View the latest University news at http://www.st-andrews.ac.uk


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