From cave paintings to pottery decoration, archaeology has always had an intimate relationship with art. So it is particularly appropriate that the University of Southampton’s brand new archaeology building is incorporating art into its very fabric.
A number of art-works have already been created or purchased for the building.
Pride of place in the entrance atrium is a 2.5 metre high sandstone "megalith" by the British artist Gary Breeze. Bearing the Latin inscription HOC PRO SPIRITU LEVANDO STATUI, it expresses a noble sentiment - I set up this stone for the lightening of the spirit.
Elsewhere inside the building we have some additional works including two large canvas acrylics by Brian Graham. Brian paints almost abstract landscapes of places which are closely connected with archaeology, including Boxgrove and Hengistbury.
On an external side wall, an 8 metre high panel has been created which consists of dozens of flint tools knapped by many of the archaeologists associated with the University of Southampton This work provides a direct personal connection to the people who make the department what it is.
The importance of the department’s people is also recognised in another specially-commissioned work, to celebrate the life of Nick Bradford. Nick was one of the longest-serving members of the department’s staff.
The artist Gary Breeze was commissioned to create a memorial work out of Purbeck stone, which features an inscription in ancient Greek. Nick found a stone bearing this inscription on a departmental expedition to Egypt, when he discovered an ancient imperial quarry. Nick touched the lives of everyone who worked or studied at Southampton, and this memorial provides a fitting tribute to him.
Donations
If you could provide a donation to help support this work you will be making a contribution to what is one of the finest archaeology facilities anywhere in the world. Your support will help future generations of Southampton students to enjoy an enriching and life-changing experience. No matter what the size, your donation will help us to make our new building a truly inspirational place in which to learn. Donations are also eligible for Gift Aid which means that, if you are a UK tax-payer, at no extra cost to you 22% is added to the value of your donation. Please fill in a Gift Aid form when you send us your donation.
Donations can be made by cheque, payable to "University of Southampton", and posted to Department of Archaeology, University of Southampton SO171BJ;
We have already raised nearly £10,000, but our target is to raise the same amount again. Please help us if you can. While all donations will be most welcome, the generosity of our larger donors will be recorded on an honour board in the entrance atrium of the new building. Money raised in excess of our requirements will establish a ring-fenced permanent endowment fund to enable the University to continue to purchase art-works to enhance the campuses.
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