There is something fitting about seeing a new mosaic sitting alongside the ancient mosaics of Brading Roman Villa. Wight Spirit, created by sculptor Guy Portelli, brings together two very different chapters of Isle of Wight history.
The impressive 9ft by 5ft glass mosaic is inspired by the original Roman mosaics at the villa. It features the handprints of 100 musicians and key figures connected with the Isle of Wight festivals between 1968 and 1970.
Those handprints give the artwork a personal connection to the people who helped make the Island’s festivals part of music history.
Guy Portelli, born in Durban in 1957, moved to the UK in 1969. He studied at Medway College of Art and later worked for the BBC, creating models for Doctor Who and Blake’s 7. He established his sculpture studio in 1985 and became widely known after appearing on BBC’s Dragons’ Den in 2008.
Wight Spirit is more than a striking piece of art. By placing it beside the Roman mosaics, Brading Roman Villa creates a fascinating link between the Island’s ancient past and its modern cultural heritage.
It is a reminder that history is not just about the distant past. The events and people of the 1960s are now part of the Island’s heritage too—and Wight Spirit ensures that their mark will not be forgotten.
The mosaic is now on display in the museum, which is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, throughout the year. Museum entry is required, but visitors who pay for admission can also see Wight Spirit as part of their visit.
Photo of Guy Portelli, creator of Wight Spirit, the new mosaic now on display at Brading Roman Villa and Jasmine Wroath, Museum & Collections Manager at Brading Roman Villa.
