WHY AN HOURGLASS OF BUTTERFLIES?
Our clients were instantly drawn to the idea of an hourglass to imply the passing of time. Patients waiting to receive the ‘gift of life’ from an organ donor often fear that time is running out. For this sculpture we have replaced the grains of sand with a positive image of butterflies flying free from the top of an hourglass, a message of freedom and a celebration of life.
We chose four butterflies to represent the many species found in the regions’ national parks and nature reserves – Marbled White, Brown Argus, Painted Lady and Chalkhill Blue.
BUTTERFLY SCULPTURE
Designing the hourglass and butterflies was a complicated process, as we wanted the butterflies to have a look of fragility whilst being totally robust. A see-through quality was achieved by having the sculpture laser cut from brushed stainless steel, polished to shimmer in sunlight much as butterflies do as they flutter about.
Plinth
A great deal of thought was given to the construction of the plinth, both from a strength and durability standpoint, and also stylistically. The internal structure is constructed from strengthened stainless steel that was fixed to the deep concrete base. The outer sleeve is of zinc, with a weathered finish giving a matt patina that contrasts beautifully with the sheen of the sculpture above.
Plaques
The information plaques were completed from brushed stainless steel to match the butterflies. These were fitted to the front and back of both sculptures. Another to a separate post.
Installation
A team of five travelled down to the two sites the week before the unveiling ceremonies. Here are two photos that give a glimpse of the heavy work that entailed. Glad I was the one taking the photos!!
Unveiling
The special event to unveil the artwork in Basingstoke was attended by family members whose loved ones gave an incredible gift by becoming organ donors, as well as members of staff from the hospitals who have supported families through organ donation, and staff from the NHS Blood and Transplant team including Jeremy Brown, team manager for south central organ donation and transplant and Susan Richards, regional manager for organ donation and transplant.
Susan Parker was there to remember her daughter Hannah who sadly passed away aged just 17 in 2005 after contracting meningitis.
Sue said: “It was never a question about whether or not we would support organ donation, I knew it was something we had to do. At such a difficult and traumatic time, it was an easy decision to make and all of the staff were absolutely fantastic throughout our entire journey.”
The day had even more significance for Sue, as it was her birthday on the day of the unveiling. She added: “It’s of course really emotional being here today, but the sculpture is beautiful and being able to remember Hannah in this way on my birthday has made it even more special. I come to the hospital quite often, so will be making regular visits to remember my amazing daughter and others like her who have changed the lives of so many others.”
John Emery saw the unveiling of the sculpture at the hospital in Winchester with his daughter Alison to remember his wife Molly, who sadly passed away at the age of 68 in November 2011. Molly had always been a vocal supporter of organ donation and had carried an organ donation card.
John said: “Even though it was a really difficult time for us all, making the decision was really easy because we knew it was what she wanted. It makes me really proud of her to know that she has helped other people.”
Alison now carries an organ donor card herself and encourages other people to support organ donation and
In the last four years, 428 people across Hampshire have received a life-saving organ donation from deceased organ donors.
Last year over 400 patients died in the UK awaiting a transplant but through these sculptures, the Trust hopes to empower more families to have a conversation about organ and tissue donation, and ultimately save more lives.
To sign up to the NHS Organ Donor Register, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk and tell your family that you want them to support your decision.
Above text extracts courtesy of Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust