Bruce Asbestos: OK! Cherub!

About

Newly commissioned work by Bruce Asbestos includes three giant inflatable sculptures: a yellow worm, a collection of frogspawn and a giant arm.

Each sculpture represents, and takes its name from, a different aspect of positive mental health. A giant yellow worm represents Rest, a group of green frogspawn represents Community and a giant cartoon arm represents Connection.

The work has been developed in response to the Bluecoat's historic building and courtyard, particularly the architectural features such as the cherubs that adorn the façade.

Inspiration for Community, the frogspawn, came from the artist’s lockdown walks to the local park where there was frogspawn in the pond, and finding it symbolic of togetherness. Rest, a worm sculpture, is inspired by Japanese Kokeshi Dolls, stylised wooden dolls with no arms or legs used as children’s toys and sold to tourists. Connection, the giant arm, is a cartoon character who symbolises reaching out to connect.

This presentation is produced in collaboration with QUAD, Derby. The Bluecoat is funded by Arts Council England and Liverpool City Council, and supported by Culture Liverpool. This project has received funding from the Garfield Weston Foundation.