Over 50 guests gathered to the Exeter Inn pub to watch the unveiling of its new and unmissable seven-foot-tall stag willow sculpture.
On Thursday April 18, a larger-than-life red deer stag, crafted from willow by talented world-leading expert in willow sculpture, Kim Creswell, was unveiled during a celebratory event.
The Exeter Inn, which lies in the town of Bampton on the edge of Exmoor National Park, forms part of Punch Pubs & Co’s Management Partnership estate and dates back hundreds of years as a traditional coaching inn. Its former signage which had become worn and dated was stripped and replaced by the new and impressive sculpture, which is quickly becoming the town’s newest attraction.
Commissioned by Punch Pubs & Co’s Head of Operations Rupert Reeves and Operations Manager James Farmer, their ambition was to bring something new to the area offering a statement piece of art for guests new and old to admire.
James said: “The sculpture is an absolute masterpiece and has been incredibly popular with locals and visiting guests. Kim’s talented artwork has caused a local stir, and for all the right reasons! It’s great to see so many people stop by this fantastic countryside pub to admire the ‘Majesty of the Moor’.”
The grand reveal saw the community of Bampton and beyond join in the celebrations which, post-unveiling, included live entertainment and music followed by an exclusive dining offer inside the pub. Kim, who is also a painter, medical herbalist and tutor also signed copies of her latest book ‘A Celebration of Willow: The Definitive Guide to Sculpture Techniques Woven with Ecology, Sustainability and Healing’ for eager locals.
Kim said: “Unveiling the willow stag, ‘Majesty of the Moor’ at the Exeter Inn was such a thrill and a delight! It was the first time I had seen the sculpture in the location which I had created it specifically for and I am so pleased with how well the larger-than-life red deer stag
sculpture fits with the locale, and what a stunning position it holds.
“There was a hugely positive response from the many lovely people who turned out to enjoy the occasion, and the publicans were the epitome of hospitality. I would like to thank Punch Pubs for commissioning this piece which celebrates the wildlife of Devon.”