Description: Two curved oaks seats are linked by a 2.7 metre arch, which has a carved sun face at the top. Carved fairies are perched on the two end posts. Finally a carved oak 'story teller seat' is located facing the arch.

Commissioned by Manchester City Council through Philippa Lloyd - Assistant Manager South Area Parks.

Phil's initial drawing showed a squirrel and a bird perched on the top of the posts. Philippa asked for fairies instead, to tie in with the concept of telling stories.

We gave the design of the fairies as a project to Jennifer Diop, a student from the illustration course at the University of Gloucestershire. We were absolutely delighted with the results.

Commission Title:
Story Circle Seats

Sculptors:
Philip Bews

Production Period:
March - May 2007

Site:
Wythenshawe Park, Manchester, England

Commissioned By:
Manchester City Council

Production Method:
The oak was bought from the Forest of Dean Forestry Commission.  Phil carved through March and April with a little help from Diane and Jennifer Diop.

The work was transported at the end of April by Damon Bramley and installed in Wythenshawe Park by Phil with assistance from Ian McDougal one of the Park's Wardens.

Ian also assisted with further carving and helped on the community workshop days when children and adults contributed by carving reliefs on a woodlands theme on the surface of the seats.

We have heard back from the Park Wardens that the seats are popular and well used by all ages.