Man"OR": Sentinels of Wymering

In the heart of history, Wymering Manor stands, a symphony of architectural brilliance now cloaked in the gentle decay of time. I propose not merely a revival but an homage to the antiquity encapsulated within its dilapidated walls. The essence of Wymering lies not just in its physical structure but in the whispers of centuries embedded in its every nook and cranny.

The Wymering Manor, a relic of the past, should not be rejuvenated conventionally; instead, it should be preserved in its glorious state of ruin. My proposal weaves together an artistic vision and a practical approach, marrying the realms of art and architecture to celebrate the historical narrative etched into the very foundation of the manor.

I envision a transformative activity that involves crafting a human figure, a guardian, from mesh, a delicate framework representing the fragile yet enduring nature of the manor itself. To complete this ethereal figure, materials indigenous to Wymering and its surroundings will be utilised. This symbolic endeavour draws inspiration from the ancient belief that humans, too, were shaped from mud, given life by a divine breath, an analogy echoing the essence of Wymering's vivacity.

Much like the manor, a dwelling only truly comes alive when constructed from mud and inhabited, the proposed mesh figures will encircle Wymering as sentinels, each figure embodying the spirit of one of the manor's distinguished rooms. Visitors are invited not merely to witness, but to partake in the resurrection of Wymering's narrative, delving into the intricate details of its construction and materials.

The manor's original materials, modestly forged in proximity, breathe life into its storied past. As an homage to this craftsmanship, the mesh figures, representative of Wymering's guardians, will be fashioned from 30mm GI sheets. Visitors will engage in a communal effort, blending materials discovered in and around the manor, witnessing the human figure materialise before their eyes.

The ephemeral nature of locally forged materials ensures a continuous cycle of decay, prompting communal involvement in the ongoing reconstruction of the figures. The process mirrors the gradual degradation of the manor itself, a living testament to the passage of time.

My fervent support for preserving Wymering as it is stems from the revelations uncovered during my exploration of its worn-out parts. Hair, incorporated into the plastering of a weathered wall, serves as a binding agent, a tangible link to the manor's construction techniques centuries ago. Unconventional materials abound, offering insights into a bygone era.

This envisioned sculpture becomes a dynamic, evolving entity, mirroring Wymering's own journey through time. Through hands-on workshops, participants become contributors to a living masterpiece. The eventual decay of the sculpture presents opportunities for successive generations to partake in its ongoing evolution.

In the spirit of King Nebuchadnezzar II's dream, where figures were constructed from various materials, the proposed sculpture mirrors the cyclical nature of creation and decay. Components from each room, symbolising the heart of Wymering, will find a place in the sculpture, bridging the past with the present.

Conducting hands-on workshops not only infuses vitality into the manor but also generates funds for its sustained development. This initiative transcends generational boundaries, fostering an appreciation for Wymering's significance. It underscores the importance of sustainable and vernacular building materials, harmonising art and architecture in a design that resonates across time, an ode to the enduring spirit of Wymering Manor.

Wymering Man: "Protect The Throne"

In the spirit of Nabukudurruusur's visionary dream, this sculpture serves as a profound synthesis of architectural elegance and poetic resonance. The enigmatic figure it portrays, possessing six upper bodies seamlessly united at a singular base, mirrors the ethereal unity that defines Wymering Manor. Akin to the veins coursing through the sculpture, emblematic of Wymering Manor's intricate design, the artistry seeks to encapsulate the very essence of this historical estate.

Much like the six distinctive chambers within the manor, each body stands as a metaphorical embodiment of the Manor's historical narrative, symbolising the six pivotal epochs that have left their indelible mark. Gazing upon the front facade, a captivating illusion unfolds – the figures appear poised for flight, an allegory for the Manor's imminent resurgence, cradled in the collective embrace of the community and devoted well-wishers. The Wymering Manor, weathered but unwavering, yearns to reclaim its erstwhile splendour, a silent plea immortalised in bronze.

The six-fold representation also transcends the mere delineation of historical epochs; it embodies the cyclical rhythm of time, reflecting the Manor's resilience amid the ebb and flow of neglect. As the statue stands resolute, the ravages of time etched upon its form, it remains an enduring testament to the Manor's enduring spirit. The lifeblood, symbolised by veins coursing with vigour, narrates a tale of endurance against the corrosive touch of time.

Crafted from a fusion of bronze and cotton steel, the very materials chosen for this sculpture evoke the gradual withering experienced by Wymering Manor over time. The interplay of these materials creates a poignant dialogue between permanence and transience. The scaffolding, fashioned from unyielding iron, stands as a symbolic bridge, representing the collaborative efforts of students, the community, and various organisations. It speaks to the collective responsibility in preserving and revitalising the venerable manor.

In this artistic endeavour, the architect-poet seeks to weave a narrative that transcends mere physical representation. It beckons the observer to delve into the layers of history, resilience, and collective aspiration, encapsulating the Wymering Manor's timeless odyssey within the sinuous contours of this evocative sculpture.