Temporary Export Ban Placed on Hepworth Sculpture to Keep it in UK

A temporary export prohibition has been placed on a sculpture by Dame Barbara Hepworth, which was created in Cornwall, to prevent its departure from the United Kingdom. Titled “Sculpture With Colour (Oval Form) Pale Blue And Red,” the artwork, crafted by Dame Barbara in St Ives in the 1940s, was sold at auction by Christie’s in March for £3.5 million. An export restriction was recommended by a committee, supported by Arts Council England (Ace), to provide an opportunity for a gallery or institution within the UK to purchase the piece. Sir Chris Bryant, the Arts Minister, expressed his desire for the sculpture to stay in the UK, stating that it offers a “beautiful insight” into the artist’s life in St Ives following the commencement of World War Two. The determination regarding an export licence application for the artwork has been postponed until February 26, 2025. Subsequently, the owners will be granted 15 business days to evaluate any proposals made at the suggested price of £3,652,180.63, in addition to VAT amounting to £129,800. Composed of painted wood, the sculpture belongs to a broader collection within Dame Barbara’s body of work, which she evolved during World War Two after relocating with her family to St Ives. Mr Bryant commented, “Dame Barbara Hepworth was a phenomenal artistic genius who will continue to inspire future generations with her unique genre-defining sculptures which remain as powerful and engaging now as during her lifetime.” He added, “Hepworth was influenced by her surroundings and this sculpture is a beautiful insight into her new life in St Ives after the outbreak of the Second World War.” Mr Bryant further stated, “I hope a UK buyer can be found for this sculpture so the British public can continue to learn and engage with one of our most important artists for generations to come.” Stuart Lochhead, representing the Reviewing Committee On The Export Of Works Of Art And Objects Of Cultural Interest, remarked: “Sculpture with Colour (Oval Form) Pale Blue and Red embodies the Cornish sky, sea and rugged coastline in which she lived and which influenced her so deeply.” He continued, “One of only a handful of stringed and coloured sculptures she produced during this period, it marks a significant evolution in her practice, bridging her pre-and post-war artistic developments.” Lochhead concluded, “As such, this beautiful and immensely informative work by one of Britain’s greatest artists must be saved for the nation.” Readers can find BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook, and Instagram, and BBC Devon on X, Facebook, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. This content is copyrighted by BBC, 2024, with all rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites and provides information regarding its policy on external linking.