A SCULPTURE that was meant to be built in the city centre to mark 800 years since the founding of the city’s cathedral is currently stuck more than 560 miles away.

Named ‘Turning Point’, the artistic piece is intended as a "marker of confidence", “reinforcing close links between the cathedral and the city”.

But as Sculptor John Maine told the Royal Academy last month, due to the coronavirus, the piece is currently stuck in Aberdeen.

"Had it not been for the present crisis", he said, "my large work 'Turning Point' would now be installed in the market place [Guildhall Square] in Salisbury."

Salisbury Journal:

He added: "It was due to be unveiled there on St George's Day, but in fact its in Aberdeen.

"I've completed it, its in seven pieces, carefully stored, but the 500 mile journey will not take place until after the crisis."

‘Turning Point’ marks the passage of time, as its shadow encircles the base. At 4.2 metres high, the sculpture is built in seven courses of granite and shaped in the form of a spire.

The sculpture was to be a gift from John to the city, and follows on from John Maine’s extensive exhibition in the Cathedral and throughout the Close and Sarum College in 2014.

He has also exhibited drawings and small sculptures in the Young Gallery beside the Market Place.

Salisbury Journal:

He said: "It was intended as a marker - somewhere you might go so far, and then turn, on your journey.

"I also felt that Salisbury was itself at a turning point. It was facing a new future.

"This was intended to be a pointer to the future, but also a link with the past, in its connection with the anniversary of the Cathedral."

To hear more from John about Turning Point, click here.