Aldeburgh Scallop

Scallop by Maggi Hambling is a 15ft high, six-and-a-half ton stainless steel sculpture that was erected on Aldeburgh beach in tribute to Benjamin Britten. It is a tribute to a great musician-composer and a celebration of the origins of his art.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 88 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2020
Publisher: UEA Publishing Project

Scallop, the remarkable sculpture created by Maggi Hambling, has emerged as the recipient of the prestigious EADT Reader's Choice Award in 2011. This awe-inspiring artwork not only pays tribute to the exceptional talent of a musician-composer but also celebrates the very essence of his artistic origins.

Scallop stands as a monumental testament to the remarkable achievements of its creator, showcasing a profound fusion of artistic brilliance and natural beauty. It gracefully embraces the thrilling intersection where culture and nature converge, creating a captivating and poetic work of art that captivates the senses.

Mel Gooding, in his enthusiastic review, describes Scallop as a robust and poetic masterpiece that defies categorization. It stands at the exhilarating edge, where the boundaries between art and nature blur, inviting viewers to embark on a transformative journey.

The sculpture has garnered widespread attention and has been the subject of much discussion and analysis. However, this essay offers a unique perspective, providing the artist's own account of the journey that led to the creation of Scallop. Interwoven with her personal narrative are interpolations from individuals who played pivotal roles in supporting or challenging her exhilarating and provocative sculpture to Benjamin Britten, one of Britain's most revered composers.

Maggi Hambling's love for the sea traces back to her earliest childhood, and her unwavering passion for the ocean has been the driving force behind her artistic endeavors. She vividly recounts how this lifelong passion has culminated in the construction of a 15-foot-high, six-and-a-half-ton stainless steel sculpture that rises majestically out of the shingle on Aldeburgh beach. Scallop has become a beloved landmark, attracting children with its playful charm, captivating lovers with its romantic allure, and serving as a poignant gathering place for those honoring lost loved ones.

However, Scallop's impact extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. The story of its conception, official acceptance, and construction is a fascinating tale that unfolds with intricate details. The artist, along with those closest to the action, shares the captivating story of its genesis, the official recognition it received, and the tumultuous controversy that erupted upon its unveiling.

Scallop's journey is a testament to the power of art to provoke, inspire, and elicit diverse reactions. It challenges societal norms, sparks intellectual discourse, and sparks emotional connections. It reminds us of the profound impact that art can have on our lives and the world around us.

In conclusion, Scallop is a remarkable sculpture that transcends the boundaries of art and nature. It stands as a testament to the exceptional talent of Maggi Hambling and her unwavering commitment to her artistic vision. Through her personal story and the perspectives of those who supported and challenged her, this essay offers a deeper understanding of the significance of Scallop and its place in the annals of artistic excellence.

Weight: 276g
Dimension: 226 x 166 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780957152830