Walking in Life with Faith

‘The Walk of Life’ Exhibition

Comprising of over 80 individual sculptures, monumental works made from bronze, resin, and steel, thoughtfully placed in harmony with the gardens and includes several pieces specifically created for Leonardslee Lakes and Gardens. The sculptures are seamlessly woven into the garden allowing visitors to experience the harmony of art and nature. Inviting our visitors to embrace the stories of life told by each sculpture, while allowing them to go on their own journey of self-discovery.   

During the journey of self-discovery, one must embrace the inevitability of change. With change comes the knowledge that whatever you do needs to come with an aspect of faith. 

Anton Smit

‘’My work is driven by faith; the spiritual essence of every piece is an answer to that inner call.” -Anton Smit

World renowned sculptor Anton Smit, has used his faith as a driving force for his creative abilities which are showcased within many of his sculptures. Each sculpture features poetry and evoke different themes of suffering, reconciliation, glory and sublimation, many of his works even the most abstract piece manages to communicate powerfully and emotionally. His works embrace towering human figures, impressive heads, mask, floating and stretching figures, Anton likes to inject his works with movement or gesture.

Faith

I lift my eyes to You,  
to You whose throne is in heaven.  
In complete submission to God.  
– Anton Smit 

Faith was conceptualized in 2007 as a universal sculpture, thinking about how mankind should be striving for Faith. That is when this sculpture was born depicting pure faith. As the sculpture is standing with his arms open. Being first made as a life-sized sculpture, Smit thought it would have a bigger impact in a public space as such a strong sculpture he started making the faith sculpture in many different sizes.   

The seven metre Faith sculpture is made of steel and GRP, there is a joining system of flanges and pipes that lock in automatically together.  At Leonardslee, you will be able to see two of these magnificent, outdoor sculptures, a three metre and a seven metre. Plus, smaller collectors editions in Leonardslee House.  

Smit says: “It investigates the landscape of the soul, offering a fleeting glimpse of eternity. The dimness of our reflection in the mirror of the universe leaves us gasping for immortality as we sink into the abyss of the self.”