A unique art installation crafted from 28,000 hand-cast plaster shells – one for every resident of Frome – is currently on display in Black Swan Arts.
The installation, entitled ‘Field’, by artist Hamish Young, is a tribute to Frome’s residents. “Every shell symbolises one of the 28,000 individuals who call this beautiful town their home,” explained Hamish.
“Housed in The Long Gallery, inside Black Swan Arts, this installation invites everyone to come together and engage with this transformative artwork. “Whether you’re a proud local or a curious visitor exploring Frome, there’s a shell waiting just for you,” said Hamish. “Choose one to take with you, to a new place, a fresh home, where it will continue its journey under your care.
“Over time, as visitors and members of the community take these shells away, the installation will organically evolve and disperse—a poetic reflection of connection, movement and shared experience.”
Hamish’s artwork has been exhibited across the country, including in the Saatchi Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum. His work is concerned with exploring ‘in between’ spaces, drawing on feelings associated with loss and abandonment from his childhood experiences.
His work explores the space between sculpture and drawing. He often moves objects from one setting to another and focuses on places that are changing or in transition.
‘Field’ will run until 24th August, and on Sunday 17th August, Hamish will deliver a special talk about the exhibition from 3pm to 4pm.
