Created by Louisa Baillie, the one-off classical-style sculpture — being cast yesterday in glass-reinforced concrete — is destined for the garden of a Tuscan-style home above Sumner.
Seddon’s, a long-established Mosgiel company primarily known for its fibrous plaster work, has a close association with Dr Baillie, including working together recently on a project for the Nelson School of Music.
In her day job, Dr Baillie works in the anatomy department at the University of Otago, where she uses both her sculpture skills and anatomy knowledge.
As anatomical model fabricator, she works with the anatomy museum’s existing collection as well as developing new models for teaching students.
"Even with all the fantastic modalities of learning including virtual reality, they still value touching and holding models.
"So this kind of sculpting work is cool to do in my spare time as it keeps my mind sharp and challenges me to also consider the artistic sensibility of the human form. And, in this case, it gave me the chance to assess the essence of what is classical."
While it had taken about 100 hours of actual sculpture time, the preparation time had been "huge", Dr Baillie said.
More than one woman modelled for her but not nude — they all wore their yoga gear. She was delighted with the end result.
She had also enjoyed working in the factory on Fridays and at weekends, and having the interaction with staff.
Seddon’s managing director John Seddon said the company had "lots of challenges put our way" in the variety of its work.
It was actively involved in heritage including the prominent rebuild of the facade of the historic Mayfair building in Christchurch’s Cathedral Junction, but it also undertook contemporary work.
Last year, the company won a major award for a ceiling it created for the new ANZ Centre in Christchurch.
The business was founded in 1953 by Mr Seddon’s father Allan and employs 10 staff.
