The Copper Coast is the name given by its local communities to the area of Co. Waterford extending roughly from Tramore in the east towards Stradbally in the west and north to the N25 Cork-Rosslare main road. In recognition of it’s outstanding volcanic geology, as well as the very significant history of mainly 19th century copper mining, the region was awarded the accolade of European Geopark in 2001 and “Unesco Geopark” in 2004. It is one of 17 designated Geoparks in Europe and is the only one in the Republic of Ireland. A Geopark is an area with a geological heritage of European significance. It’s significance is defined in terms of it’s scientific quality, rarity aesthetic appeal and educational value.

The sculpture was made from a solid piece of limestone weighing 13 tonnes. It arrived at the Technical Stonework Teams Workshop, Paulstown, Kilkenny as a huge rectangular mass but only as Fintan started to sculpt the rock we could see my basic design emerging.

The commissioning board wanted a permanent and durable sculpture and the idea being the way to work should celebrate the way volcanoes, oceans, deserts and ice sheets have combined to create rock unions provide the physical foundation of the natural and cultural landscapes of the coast.

Only when Fintan had completed his work I could then start to adhere the ‘Smalti’ tiles, the fire and glaciers moving slowly on the rear then a vibrant cascade of colours flowing over the top and falling to the base of the sculpture.