AN exhibition showcasing the talents of a renowned British artist and sculptor who studied at Chester School of Art is preparing to draw to a close at the city’s Grosvenor Museum.

The work of Professor Michael Sandle RA – widely recognised as one of the finest sculptors in the world – has been on display in the exhibition 'Monumental Rage' since May, attracting thousands of visitors.

Having exhibited across five continents, his work is in public collections around the world and the Grosvenor Museum's main gallery is currently displaying three of Sandle's acclaimed sculptures, each exploring themes of war, death and destruction.

Also on show are a series of wall-mounted bronze sculptures, as well as pen-and-ink drawings and prints showcasing the artist's talents as a draughtsman and printmaker.

One of the prints, 'Bunker in Moonlight' will remain part of the museum's permanent collection when the exhibition finishes, thanks to a donation from the Tyrer Charitable Trust – part of Chester law firm Aaron & Partners LLP.

Clive Pointon, who heads up Chester-based Aaron and Partners’ nationally acclaimed Wills, Trusts & Tax team and is also Chairman of the Tyrer Charitable Trust, said: "Michael Sandle is a much-revered artist and sculptor and given his strong connection to Chester, we felt it only right to ensure that some of his work can remain in the Grosvenor Museum for people to enjoy.

"Bunker in Moonlight is a wonderful piece of art and Sandle himself actually regards it as his finest print. We're delighted to have played such an important role in this exhibition and we remain committed to ensuring important works of art with a Cheshire connection like this can stay in the county for all to see.”

Now aged 82, Sandle spent two years in Chester between 1954-5 while on National Service. He attended evening classes at Chester School of Art – then housed in the Grosvenor Museum – significantly developing his passion for art.

Peter Boughton, the Grosvenor Museum’s Keeper of Art, said: “This is one of the most ambitious art exhibitions ever mounted by the museum and it's been a privilege to showcase so many wonderful pieces from Michael Sandle.

“There are just days left until the exhibition closes, so I would urge anyone who hasn’t yet seen it for themselves to pay the museum a visit. The art on display is powerful and very relevant, and we’re profoundly grateful to the Tyrer Charitable Trust for their exceptionally generous support.

"The exhibition would not have been possible without the support of lots of other organisations too, so our thanks also go to Flowers Gallery, the Grosvenor Museum Society, the Henry Moore Foundation, the Finnis Scott Foundation, the Westminster Foundation, the Granada Foundation, the University of Chester, RA250 UK with Art Fund, and Hiscox.”