Artwork inspired by china clay goes on display

The sculpture is returning to the museum that inspired its creation 20 years ago

A ceramic sculpture depicting porcupine-like quills has been donated to the museum that inspired its creation 20 years ago.

Artist Tim Andrews made his sculpture, Quills, in 2005 during a residency at Wheal Martyn Clay Works, near St Austell, Cornwall.

Andrews "studied fossil remains embedded in layers of clay silt" and came up with the idea of making pieces with the help of "elemental eroding", Wheal Martyn said.

Exhibition officer Sian Powell said it was "wonderful to add this stunning piece" to the collection in the museum's 50th anniversary year.

The 3ft (90cm) sculpture was made from porcelain and stoneware, and finished with china clay and flint slip

Ms Powell said Andrews' artwork "alluded strongly to ancient artefacts and organic forms, such as porcupine quills, after which the piece was named".

The sculpture, which is about 3ft (91cm) tall, was made from porcelain and stoneware, and finished with china clay and flint slip, the spokesperson said.

The artwork was donated by mining company Imerys, which operates the neighbouring Wheal Martyn clay pit.

Mark Hewson, from the firm, said: "Many artists over the years have been inspired by the china clay industry."

Quills will be on display until 23 December as part of the 50 Years of Wheal Martyn exhibition before moving on to a permanent display.