Dreaming big

Driving to South Liverpool this morning we spotted a white 'something' out of the window on the side of the motorway. A bit of googling later we found our more about the sculpture we'd seen, and decided to visit it on our way home. Lots of people were visiting the sculpture 'Dream' when we did, and I liked this photo I got of one small boy posing in front of it.

Details about the piece from www.visitsthelens.com

Dream is the spectacular, internationally significant, landmark sculpture sited on the former Sutton Manor Colliery in St.Helens, close to Junction 7 of the busy M62, midway between Manchester and Liverpool, where it is passed by over 35 million vehicles a year.

The 20 metre-high artwork takes the form of a young girl's head with her eyes closed in a seemingly dream-like state. The piece has a white, almost luminescent finish in marked contrast to the black of the coal that still lies below. Its contours and reflectivity change according to the time of day and the weather.

Dream was conceived and designed by the world-renowned, award-winning, Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. His other works include The Crown Fountain (2000) in the centre of Chicago and Breathing, the illuminated glass dome of BBC Broadcasting House in London.

Commissioned by ex-miners and St.Helens Council, the sculpture reflects the aspirations of the local community, who, far from wanting a mining monument, sought instead a forward-looking piece that would provide a beautiful, inspiring, contemplative space for generations to come.

Over and above honouring the human heritage of the site, the artwork is also intended to symbolise the area's positive post-industrial transformation, become an iconic new regional landmark, generate significant economic benefits, and enhance local pride.