A sculpture by renowned artist Dame Barbara Hepworth, created during her time in St Ives, Cornwall, has been placed under a temporary export bar to prevent its removal from the UK.
Titled Sculpture With Colour (Oval Form) Pale Blue And Red, the piece was crafted in the 1940s and sold at a Christie’s auction in March for £3.5 million.
The UK’s Arts Council (ACE) recommended the export bar to provide an opportunity for a domestic gallery or institution to acquire the artwork.
Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant expressed hope that the sculpture would remain in the country, describing it as a “beautiful insight” into Hepworth’s life and artistic evolution after relocating to St Ives during World War II.
The decision on the sculpture’s export licence has been deferred until 26 February 2025.
During this time, interested parties can submit offers matching the recommended price of £3,652,180.63, plus VAT of £129,800.
Made of painted wood, the sculpture is part of a series that Hepworth developed throughout the war, reflecting her response to the Cornish landscape.
It is one of a few stringed and colored works that marked a pivotal shift in her artistic practice.
Stuart Lochhead, from the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest, emphasized the sculpture’s significance: “It embodies the Cornish sky, sea, and rugged coastline that influenced Hepworth so deeply and bridges her pre- and post-war artistic developments.”
Bryant added, “Hepworth’s unique, genre-defining sculptures continue to inspire, and I hope a UK buyer can secure this piece for the nation, ensuring future generations can engage with one of our greatest artists.”
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