Clifton Cathedral, Bristol

Faircrete

During the late 50s-60s and the early seventies, companies were encouraged to invest in Research and Development and were given extensive tax incentives to do so. This led to many innovative techniques and a resurgence in the crafts.

One such invention was "Faircrete", produced by John Laing, the builders.

Faircrete, a form of concrete, could be cut and formed whilst in a wet state, and retained its shape whilst in the process of drying.

It occurred to me that if an image could be transferred to wet finished flat surfaces, and one was quick about it, a carving could be executed in a fast, economic manner.

fig. 1

Thus, a drawing in soft charcoal could be spread over the wet surface, pressed into the surface (fig 1), and removed, leaving behind an inlaid line, which could act as an outline for carving (fig 2 and 3). When I did this, I was tempted to not carve it at all, as the drawing transferred perfectly and presented a "there for ever" fossilised look!

fig. 2 fig. 3

The Stations of the Cross

	The "stations" are placed in alcoves, each alcove being illuminated from above, giving a striking, top lit effect. Each panel is approximately 2000mm by 1500mm
	Accused
	Arraigned
	Scourged
	Falling on the road to Calvary
	Onlooker takes pity and assists
	Crucified
	Thief Repents
	Mary at Calvary
The Doors	The doors pivot on a central point. They are finished in nickel silver.
	The door pushes carry the crest of the diocese, also in polished nickel silver.
The Lectern	The lectern has a similar texture, to make an integrated whole, with a similar treatment to that of the textured doors.