Local woodcarver David Wallace travelled to London yesterday (Thursday) to take his beautifully carved crutches to the Royal Academy of Arts where they will form part of their delayed Summer exhibition this Autumn.
David, who is homeless, carved the crutches while teaching woodwork skills at the Riverside Centre in Newport several years ago.
They will be on display at the Royal Academy of Arts between 6th October 2020 and the 3rd January 2021. The exhibition was originally due to run from 9th June – 16th August, but has been rescheduled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
You may be familiar with David’s work as he has created stunning sculptures at Fort Victoria from fallen trees. More recently he donated a carving of a narwhal tusk for auction which raised £220 for the West Wight Coronavirus Support Hub and the Our Place Community Café (both based at West Wight Sports and Community Centre), groups which helped David during the pandemic.
Wightlink were able to provide David with his ferry travel from Yarmouth, helping him on his way to London.
Such skill! Truly amazing.