World-renowned sculptor dies (From Stroud News and Journal)

World-renowned sculptor dies

LYNN Chadwick, a giant of the art world, has died at the age of 88.

Sculptor Chadwick, who was widely accepted as one of the greatest artists of his generation lived at Lypiatt Park near Bisley.

Self-taught, he combined impressive technical skill with a deep understanding of the human dilemma.

His menacing, aggressive early work captured the feeling of a world trying to come to terms with the fear and horror of the Second World War while later pieces showed a keen insight into human relationships.

His strict personal discipline allowed him to produce a huge body of work ranging from delicate wire-frame mobiles to towering bronzes.

Though internationally acclaimed he chose to live in Stroud adding weight to the area's artistic community.

Rungwe Kingdon, director of Chalford-based Pangolin Editions, Britain's largest fine art foundry, worked with the sculptor since the early 80s. "He's worked with us for many years and we have got to know the man and his work," he said.

"He was a big man, physically imposing and charming. "He was always very supportive and encouraging to other artists in the area.

"Very seldom would he not see a young art student who wanted to talk to him about sculpture."

Author Jilly Cooper, who lives in Bisley, knew the sculptor and based the home of the hero of her novel Polo on his beautiful house at Lypiatt Park. "It's so sad," she said.

"He was such a lovely man and the greatest sculptor in the world. "He was quite shy and didn't push himself and was not at all conceited so he didn't get the same high profile of a lot of artists these days.

"He was quite acerbic to talk to and had a lovely bitchy turn of phrase but it was covering up a great kindness.

"He was absolutely dedicated to his work and had the burning passion of an artist. "He was a hero."

Chadwick's death will be mourned by the art world as well as by friends but he will be remembered as one of the great sculptors of the 20th century.

Mr Kingdon said: "If anyone is asked what are the things you know about Stroud one will be that Lynn Chadwick lived there."

He is survived by a son from his first marriage to Charlotte Secord, two daughters from his second to Francis Jamieson and by his third wife Eva with whom he had a son. A private funeral is due to be held on Friday.