The ‘Raven and Ring’ Sculpture at Ellesmere College

The 'Raven and Ring' sculpture is the latest Leaver's Gift at Ellesmere College. Sculptured by local artist Ben Broadbent, who was commissioned earlier this year to produce a galvanised steel sculpture based on the College's crest. Ben who has worked on many major works of art, including a recent sculpture for the Parachute Regiment at the National Arboretum in Staffordshire said "It was a particular pleasure to be asked by Ellesmere to produce the Raven and the Ring, It is by far the largest piece I have ever produced and challenged not only my artistic ability and physical stamina, but also my engineering skills too".

Nick Pettingale, Director of External Relations commented, "Each year the school leavers contribute to a Leaver's Gift, which, at the moment enables the College to add a piece of sculpture to our fabulous grounds. We seek out talented, local artists, some of whom will be displaying their work at our National Art Exhibition at the end of May 2013, so that we can lift the profile of the Arts in the region. I am amazed at the depth of talent there is in this area. Our goal is to promote artistic talent and create a platform for the Arts within the school, where we encourage every student to express themselves and be individual, whether as an academic, a musician, an artist or on the sports field. Ben's piece sits alongside the 'Seat of Learning' carved in Portland stone by Judy Greaves'.

The legend of the Raven relates to St Oswald, the name originally given to the school and still the name of the College's Chapel. Oswald sent the Raven, with a wedding ring in its beak, to propose marriage to a Welsh princess. The Raven and Ring was unveiled in time for the recent College Open Day which saw more than 75 families visit the school, exploring the possibility of placing their children in this dynamic and ever growing school.

19th October 2012  Back to News