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30 August 2012
Last updated at
14:35
In pictures: Northumberlandia - the reclining lady
From above it is clear that Northumberlandia is a reclining female figure, but from the ground only certain parts of the form can be easily identified. The two circles to the left of the piece are viewing platforms to see the artwork better.
The female figure in Northumberland is covered in paths that surround the base and cover the raised levels of the structure. The highest point is her forehead at 34 metres (112ft) tall. She is 400 metres (1,300 ft) long from top to bottom.
The plans for the mine and sculpture were originally turned down by Northumberland County Council in 2006, but after planning applications were resubmitted and approved, work began in 2010.
Designed by celebrated artist Charles Jencks and created by a team of people including some workers from the nearby Shotton Surface Mine, it is hoped the artwork will bring tourists to the area.
The opencast mine can be seen from the highest point of Northumberlandia, or from a helicopter as in this picture. The mine is surrounded by raised grassed mounds, so cannot be seen from ground level.
The entrance to Northumberlandia begins in woodland, opening up to reveal the figure raising up from the ground in front. The idea was to add a fairytale feel to the experience. It is hoped the site will become a family favourite, with picnic tables built into parts of the artwork.
Built from the by-product of the opencast mine, Northumberlandia is created with layers of rock, clay and soil, topped with special grass seed that will withstand the rigours of being walked on. The grass will be maintained, but creator The Banks Group said it hoped the grass would add to the art as it grows, giving movement to the static structure.
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