Before half term, the Art Department took a group of 6.1 students to visit Sir Antony Gormley’s ‘Another Place’ at Crosby beach, to experience art off-site again, following the easing of Coronavirus restrictions. Renowned sculptor, Antony Gormley created ‘Another Place’ – consisting of 100 cast-iron, life-size figures spread out over several kilometres of foreshore, and almost a kilometre out to sea, to harness the ‘ebb and flow’ of the tide and to explore man’s relationship with nature. According to Antony Gormley: “The seaside is a good place to do this. Here time is tested by tide, architecture by the elements and the prevalence of sky seems to question the earth's substance.” The 8 6.1 Art students visited the beach to discover the workings of the various figures, each weighing 650 kilos, looking out to the sea, “to gather primary research for A Level projects” according to Head of Art, Mr Anthony Hudson. Said Mr Hudson: “It’s hard to describe how wonderful it was to engage with art as a group after such a long time, as trips like this are such a vital part of the A level Art experience. “Visiting Antony Gormley’s Another Place was the perfect choice of work to demonstrate to students the importance of connecting with art first hand, as much like the iron figures spread right along the coast, we were blasted by the wind, rain and sand throughout our visit! “However, nothing could dampen the spirits of this group who have adapted so well to all the challenges they have faced across the year.” He added: “I was really proud of how they responded to this thought-provoking piece and hope this is the first of many more trips in the months to come.” Reflecting on the day, 6.1 student William said: “It was interesting to see how Antony Gormley depicted the human form using the casting technique; like 'Another Place', many of his works use ambiguous geometry to portray humans, which contradicts typical art beliefs. “Through the trip, I came to realise that perhaps artwork should never only be judged by how real it appears, but also the message which the artist tries to convey via their work. “Although it was raining and windy that day, I experienced a scene that wouldn't have been so spectacular if the weather had not been so fierce. “The eeriness of the humanoid sculptures, the battering winds from the sea, and the half-obscured industrial landscapes in the distance together created a post-apocalyptic atmosphere.” Click here to view the eye-catching ‘Another Place’ photo gallery from the day.