The couple contributed to the church by commissioning several sculptures.

Even the works that most nearly meet the standards set by traditional sculpture - "Mme.

Later in the 60s Tadé expanded his work by wooden sculptures looking like insects or mars people.

"Having encountered them through a favorite band, people don't feel as intimidated as they would by, say, a painting or sculpture," he says.

The figures often seen in his paintings are abstract and inspired by the masks and sculptures of Nigeria.

Contemporary paintings and drawings inspired by ancient sculpture in the Ashmolean's cast gallery.

And even less prominent women had active lives, as indicated by vivid little ceramic sculptures from the cemetery island of Jaina.

"Most have been affected by the built environment - more affected than by painting and sculpture in museums."

The memorial's design concept of four outdoor "rooms" and gardens is animated by water, stone, and sculpture.

Richard Dorment is awed by sculptures that defy convention - and apparently the laws of gravity.