First sculpture of its kind in UK to be permanently etched in British Sign Language

A new sculpture celebrating British Sign Language and deaf culture has been unveiled in Bristol.

Hand in Hand by Cathy Mager features two tree-like structures with branches etched in BSL and trunks imprinted with handprints.

It now stands in the shared reception area of Elmfield School for Deaf Children and Upper Horfield Community School, after having been developed in collaboration with pupils from both schools and supported by deaf and disabled artists.

The sculpture’s leaves are Portuguese cork, a natural sound absorber that helps soften the acoustics of the space – photo: Charlie Swinbourne

Kate Persaud, headteacher at Elmfield School for Deaf Children, said the project “has been a wonderful experience for the pupils from both schools”.

“To have such a significant and positive installation in our building helps to reinforce Elmfield’s commitment to creating an environment that celebrates British Sign Language and deaf culture.

“Cathy’s vision for this piece was ideal for the space and for the ethos of our school, and we are so fortunate to have had this opportunity to work together.”

The sculpture was made possible through funding from Bristol City Council and Arts Council England; and fabricated by a team of Bristol specialists including carpentry by Rich White at Spike Island and timber etching by routing machines at Bristol Old Vic’s scenic workshop – photo: Charlie Swinbourne

Mager is the seventh generation in her family who is deaf, with her grandfather and great grandfather both specialising in timber etching and wood cutting.

Mager called Hand in Hand “a monument to the vitalness of communication and friendship in the lives of deaf children as they grow, learn and dream for the future”.

She said: “I wanted to capture the joy of sign language and the transformative impact it has on the wellbeing of deaf and hearing children alike.”

Cathy Mager is an acclaimed artist and curator known for her powerful public realm works – photo: Charlie Swinbourne

Christine Townsend, chair of Bristol City Council’s children & young people policy committee, added: “This remarkable sculpture is a celebration of creativity, inclusion and the power of communication.

“It reflects the values we hold dear in Bristol – that every child, regardless of how they communicate, should feel seen, heard and valued.

“I’m proud that our city is home to such a pioneering piece of public art, and I commend the pupils, artists and schools who brought this vision to life.”

Main photo: Charlie Swinbourne

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