A total of 11 works by the Society of South West Sculptors are on display in the gardens of Bishop's Palace in Wells.

Martin Staniforth's sculptures are part of the exhibition , which explores hope and natural progression. “These sculptures explore how an ending can also be a new beginning,” Staniforth said.

The spherical sculpture is woven from willow branches. Photo: Martin Staniforth

“I named my sculptures Scension because there is an ambiguity – are they going up or down? Rising or falling? Emerging or disappearing?” Mr Staniforth confided.

In English, Scension has no meaning, but looks similar to the word Ascension which means 'to go up', 'to ascend' and also similar to the word Descension which means 'to go down', 'to go downhill' and also means elm (a tree species widely distributed in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, grown for timber, medicine, and as an ornamental plant - PV).

The 'water drops' are skillfully woven from willow branches. Photo: Martin Staniforth

The Somerset area (including the city of Wells) was once rich in elms until a disease wiped them out.

“Other species will rise and fill the void. Maybe sycamores, maybe willows,” says sculptor Staniforth.

Wine bottle artworks at the exhibition. Photo: Martin Staniforth

Another work on display in the old building. Photo: Morth

He used willow branches to weave and connect them together into the desired shape. The spherical and gourd-shaped works are hanging on the walls of the historic building.

Besides the sculptures made from willow branches, the exhibition also features many special dance performances.

The exhibition will last until September 24.

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