The Heavy Metal exhibition at Albion Barn and Fields in south Oxfordshire showcases large-scale industrial sculptures by Anthony Caro and James Capper in a rural setting. According to gallery director Michael Hue-Williams, the show highlights an intergenerational dialogue between the late 20th-century master and his successor, utilizing reclaimed steel and machinery parts to transform the landscape.
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Moving art out of the traditional “white cube” gallery space and into natural landscapes is a growing trend for private dealers. Michael Hue-Williams, who manages the Oxfordshire site, notes that he prefers the element of surprise over conventional sculpture parks. By placing works like Anthony Caro’s Slow Passage—a piece constructed from a repurposed cattle crush—near woodland and wildlife, the exhibition forces viewers to discover art as an unplanned encounter rather than a curated destination.
The sculptures at Albion Barn and Fields are positioned to interact with the environment. James Capper’s IRIS features mechanical “grabber” parts that open like flower petals, bridging the gap between heavy industrial salvage and organic movement.
The dialogue between Anthony Caro and James Capper
The exhibition serves as a retrospective of a professional relationship that began years ago. According to exhibition materials, James Capper once interviewed for a welding position under Anthony Caro. Instead of hiring him, Caro encouraged Capper to return to his own studio to develop his individual practice. Today, Capper operates from a studio on a former military airfield in Wiltshire, while Caro’s influence remains visible in the use of industrial materials—such as the ship’s anchor used in the piece Erl King.
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The use of repurposed materials is a signature element of 20th-century British sculpture. Caro, who was instrumental in the construction of London’s Millennium Bridge, gained prominence for elevating scrap metal into high art. In the current show, viewers can compare Caro’s Star Flight, constructed from galvanised steel, against Capper’s newer, kinetic works. The curators, Lucca Hue-Williams and Michael Hue-Williams, describe the result as a “hidden gem” that avoids the commercial trappings of a gift shop or cafe in favor of a raw, pastoral experience.
The site is open to the public by appointment on Thursdays and Fridays. Because the terrain features large, industrial sculptures, the organizers have restricted access to those 12 and older. Visitors aged 12–17 must remain under adult supervision at all times, and guests are strictly prohibited from climbing on the artwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Heavy Metal exhibition located?
The exhibition is hosted at Albion Barn and Fields in south Oxfordshire. It features a mix of woodland and open fields where the sculptures are displayed.
Is there an admission fee to see the sculptures?
While the works are available for purchase through dealer Michael Hue-Williams, the exhibition is free to visit for the public, provided that guests book their time in advance.
Can children attend the exhibition?
The exhibition is not suitable for children under the age of 12. Visitors between the ages of 12 and 17 must be supervised by an adult at all times to ensure the safety of both the guests and the sculptures.
Are there facilities on-site?
There is no gift shop or cafe at the location. However, the site is adjacent to a thatched pub, which provides refreshments for visitors.
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