The Irwell Sculpture Trail
The Irwell Sculpture Trail is the largest public art project in the United Kingdom. The trail passes through Burrs on its journey of roughly 30 miles from Salford Quays to the source of the Irwell on the Pennine Moors.
Burrs Country Park is home to a cluster of sculptures, with 3 only a short distance apart.
Waterwheel by David Kemp 1996
This sculpture is found at the main entrance to the park. The wheel symbolises the process of constant change - the changing of the river into an industrial site and its change back into countryside again.
Stone Cycle by Julie Edwards 1997
The broken circular layout of the piece signifies the passing of time, people, industry and re-invention of the area. The stones were originally quarried for use in the construction of a bridge and in places, the masons marks can still be seen. The carved symbols and pictures were added by the artist as clues to long forgotten stories.
Picnic Area by David Fryer 1998
This human scale mouse trap has the words 'Picnic Area' inscribed on the plate. The sculptor created it as a wry comment on the hidden history and site use as a country park. The use of the words ‘Picnic Area’ is to encourage the visitor to question whether the art is a public amenity or tourist trap.
