Paul Riley, This is not a Hat Stand, Resin, 350 × 80 × 80 cm
Paul Riley’s This is not a Hat Stand transforms a familiar idea into a playful, monumental form. Towering at 350 centimetres and slimly proportioned, this abstract garden sculpture commands attention with its elegant verticality. While its title humorously warns against a practical use, the work simultaneously engages the viewer through suggestion and irony, inviting closer examination and contemplation.
The sculpture’s slender lines and geometric simplicity create a sense of upward movement. From base to tip, Riley balances form and proportion with precision, ensuring the piece feels grounded despite its height. Its vertical rhythm encourages the eye to travel along the sculpture’s surface, revealing subtle variations in texture and contour. Consequently, viewers encounter both stability and dynamism, as the form seems to stretch skyward while maintaining a quiet presence in the garden.
Moreover, the resin material enhances its versatility. Smooth, resilient, and weather resistant, the sculpture reflects light differently throughout the day, accentuating its contours and amplifying its visual impact. Shadows fall across the surface, introducing contrast and further enlivening its minimalistic structure. As a result, the sculpture interacts with its environment, changing character depending on the angle, time, and surrounding space.
Ultimately, This is not a Hat Stand exemplifies Riley’s wit and mastery of abstract form. Through playful suggestion, elegant proportions, and thoughtful materiality, he transforms a simple vertical structure into a striking visual statement. The sculpture blurs the line between function and art, inviting viewers to engage with it both intellectually and imaginatively, while redefining expectations of scale, purpose, and interaction.
Delivery & Installation
The Sculpture Park will be in contact after purchase to arrange a delivery date. Delivery will require at least 2 people, which will be provided by The Sculpture Park wherever possible. We can provide an installation service upon request, email Sian at sian@thesculpturepark.com to discuss details. Delivery and installation will be provided by The Sculpture Park for mainland Great Britain, excluding the Channel Islands, Scottish Highlands and Republic of Ireland. A mainland courier company will handle any onward shipping.
We can provide a suitable sculpture plinth for an extra charge, please enquire for details. Experienced professionals handle all our sculptures, ensuring safe delivery and proper installation.
This piece is currently available for viewing at the park. Additional images, videos, measurements, and details can be provided upon request.
