My friend and colleague Edward Allington, who has died aged 66 after suffering from liver disease, made a significant contribution to British sculpture with his work, his teaching and his writing.
He first became known in the early 1980s for his exuberant “cornucopia” sculptures, as shown in Objects and Sculpture (Arnolfini, Bristol and ICA, London, 1981), which also featured the work of Richard Deacon, Anish Kapoor and Bill Woodrow, and the Sculpture Show (Hayward Gallery, London, 1983). His first solo exhibition was held at the Lisson Gallery, also in the capital, in 1983.
Numerous worldwide exhibitions and commissions followed, particularly in the US, Germany and Japan. Edward’s work is represented in major public collections, including the Arts Council, Tate, the Henry Moore Institute, V&A and British Museum.
In the introduction to his book, A Method for Sorting Cows: Essays 1993-97, he states: “There are artists who write as well as make art, and there are those who do not. I believe in writing as I believe in teaching; as part of the broader spectrum of sculptural practice.”
Edward’s texts display a startling understanding of a range of artistic practices, and are a singular contribution to art education and a testimony to an original mind.
In 1990 Edward joined the staff of the Slade School of Fine Art UCL, becoming head of graduate sculpture in 2000 and professor in 2006. It was at the Slade that Edward’s varied talents and interests were most manifest.
From Japanese sculpture through to a remarkable understanding of all things technical and material, he created a unique platform to enlighten people’s minds. The depth and breadth of his knowledge, ranging from classical antiquity to contemporary automobile design, was astounding. He lectured on topics ranging from zombies to kitsch.
Born in Cumbria to Ralph Allington and his wife, Evelyn (nee Hewartson), Edward was keen on art from an early age, painting for people in his village and excited by objects discovered at a local dig by archaeologists. His talent was recognised by the Lakes school, Troutbeck Bridge. He studied at Lancaster College of Art (1968-71), and in London at Central School of Art and Design (1971-74) and the Royal College of Art (1983-84).
A self-confessed petrolhead, last year he finally completed the restoration of his beloved 1970 Harley Davidson XR750 TT racer, currently on loan to the Sammy Miller motorcycle museum in New Milton, Hampshire.
He was a gentle, kind man, enthusiastic for all things material. Those of us who knew him experienced his generosity, knowledge, insights and laughter.
He is survived by his partner, Asako Nakakura, and by his children, Thalia and Harry, from his relationship with the installation artist Julia Wood, who died in 2003.