Angus artist to create community landmark

A prize-winning sculptor from Angus has been awarded the £45,000 commission for a public artwork at the new St Rollox Church in Glasgow.

Michael Visocchi was chosen from a field of 21 internationally renowned artists to create an artwork envisaged as a landmark and iconic focal point for the community in the Sighthill regeneration area.

Rev Jane Howitt, minister at St Rollox and chairwoman of the jury who selected his design, said: “We shortlisted four talented artists who each contributed very high quality entries and as we began our deliberations the jury members had differing ideas of who they thought might win the commission.

“It was really interesting to see during our discussion how those preferences changed. By the end of the day there was complete unanimity regarding the appointment of Michael Visocchi. The jury felt that Michael’s entry has the potential to speak to the community on many levels.

“We considered his proposal to be a truly unique artwork, something which has not been seen elsewhere in Scotland or indeed across the UK. It is a piece that brings the church outside into the community and by using various cruciform designs strongly identifies the building as a church. We believe it will become a well-loved landmark and one which will stand the test of time.”