YORKSHIRE SCULPTOR FINDS HIS QUARRY

Tingley-based sculptor Dave Bedford has gone back to his roots in order to showcase his impressive creations.

Dave, whose first job at the age of 16 involved working at Woodkirk Quarry in Morley, is currently exhibiting his work within the display area at Mone Brothers’ Blackhill Quarry near Bramhope.

After working at the quarry Dave went on to study at York College of Arts and Crafts before beginning work as a sculptor. He currently operates out of a workshop at R G Stone in Guiseley.

Dave commented: “My father was a bricklayer by trade but carved wood as a hobby which got me interested in sculpture.

“I started displaying my work at Blackhill Quarry last year and I’ve already sold several of the exhibited pieces. I think homeowners are warming to the idea of having an affordable work of art within their home or garden.

“My two favourite pieces currently in situ at Blackhill are ‘Embrace’ and ‘Mini Cooper’. Both are formed from the same Bramley Fall stone that is quarried at Blackhill.

“It’s a very good medium to work with and its distinctive look and feel has played a big part in creating our area’s architectural landscape,” added Dave who also has a flourishing business in bespoke carved stone fireplaces.

He is also currently exhibiting his work at the Cupola Art Gallery in Sheffield and at Skipton’s Mill Bridge Art Gallery and he’s always on the look out for more venues.

“I would love see some of my work in the Chelsea Flower Show one day,” continued Dave “and within some of the bigger galleries around the country.”

The works of art at Blackhill are certainly proving popular as Quarry Manager Craig Morrell maintained: “It’s a creative and fascinating addition to our show garden area and a real talking point for visitors. We are actually finding that some customers are coming here specifically to view Dave’s work.”

For more details visit www.undercliffestone.co.uk and www.monebrosdiy.co.uk