Elisabeth Frink was only nine years old when the WWII broke out, and much of her work was drawn from these earlier experiences. The horrors of the Second World War had a lasting impact on her work and life, and prompted her to become an active supporter of Amnesty International.

She was interested in human and animal forms, often combining both to share her view that mankind was not superior to the natural world. She used the male figure to explore the complexities of humanity, exposing both strength and vulnerability, as with First Man.

An exhibition of Frink’s sculpture, prints and plaster models – Natural Connection – is on display at The Weston until 23 February 2025.

Courtesy The Frink Estate and Yorkshire Sculpture Park.