Callanish, a sculpture and landscaping project under construction at the University of Strathclyde in 1974. In the background are the Wolfson Centre, student residences, and Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Sculptor Gerald Laing was commissioned by the University to produce a public steel sculpture as part of a landscaping project aimed at restoring some greenery to the Townhead area. Situated at the highest natural point on campus, Callanish is based on the standing stones at Callanish in the Western Isles. Sixteen free-standing steel abstract pillars on a concrete base are spread over an area occupying half an acre. The sculpture is often referred to as "Steelhenge", by mistaken association with Stonehenge, a term which obscures its Celtic origins.
In 2004 the sculpture, now on a grassy base, remains a focal point for the University, and it is a popular meeting place for students. Surrounded by buildings, however, it is not easily seen from outside and this diminishes its impact.
Reference: P2/4/31
Reproduced with the permission of Strathclyde University Archives
Keywords:
Callanish, landscaping, Royal Infirmary, sculptures, standing stones, steel, Steelhenge, University of Strathclyde, Wolfson Centre
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