New Charles Wood bust by Islandmagee sculptor Naomi Sander unveiled at St Patrick's Cathedral, Armagh
A new tribute to the renowned Armagh-born composer Charles Wood – created by Islandmagee-based sculptor Naomi Sander of Studio Sander and Sander – was unveiled at St Patrick’s Church of Ireland Cathedral as part of the Charles Wood Festival of Music.
The first-ever specially commissioned Jesmonite bust was unveiled by the Festival’s Patron, Sir John Rutter, in the presence of Festival supporters, clergy, musicians and other guests on Thursday, August 20.
The sculpture, which took five months to complete, celebrates the life and legacy of Charles Wood, whose music continues to be performed by choirs around the world a century after his death.
Naomi said: “Seeing the sculpture unveiled in St Patrick’s Cathedral has been a very special moment. Charles Wood’s music is a living legacy, still performed and loved around the world, and I hope this bust encourages people to discover more about the man behind that remarkable body of work. "
Sir John Rutter expressed his delight at being in Armagh to pay tribute to the life and work of Sir Charles Wood, highlighting the wonderful legacy of having the bust displayed in the very church where Wood’s musical journey began.
Richard Yarr, Chair of the Charles Wood Festival of Music, described witnessing the unveiling of the artwork as a “privilege”, adding: “We are grateful to Naomi for creating such a fitting tribute and to Sir John Rutter for helping us celebrate Charles Wood’s extraordinary legacy. We hope the bust will inspire visitors and musicians for many years to come.”