We have some of the most talented stone carvers in the country; check out these carvings at a local Cookstown butcher.
We proudly designed, supplied, and fitted these stunning stone carvings at a local butcher shop in Cookstown, County Tyrone. When such a project comes to Cunningham Stone, excitement fills the office – we truly enjoy the challenge of an art project like this.
For this project, Cove Red Sandstone was chosen. This sandstone is a popular choice across Ireland today, often replacing the now-unquarried Scrabo Sandstone. Cove Red is still actively quarried at Cove Quarry in Kirk Patrick Fleming, Scotland, where extraction has been ongoing since around 1890.
Cove Red is characterised by its red hue, fine grain, distinctive bedding patterns, and porosity of approximately 17%. It is utilised not only throughout the United Kingdom but also internationally; notable examples include its use in the Kelvingrove Museum in Glasgow.
This project involved the creation of nine intricate carvings, featuring designs such as a cow head, ram head, and sheep head. We sourced Cove Red Sandstone from across the water, cutting it to size with our modern table saws. After that, our exceptionally skilled stone carvers took over, transforming these blocks of sandstone into stunning works of art. We believe in allowing the creative process to unfold without rushing, so we give our carvers the time they need to perfect each piece.
Once the carvings were completed, the stone was carefully packed onto pallets and delivered to the site by our fitting team. Significant attention is given during this stage, as even a single mistake can lead to considerable setbacks, wasting weeks of diligent work.
Read more about our process
This project was an honour and a pleasure to be involved with from day one. Our carvings will proudly sit in the centre of Cookstown for generations to come, serving as a testament to the skill and dedication of everyone involved in their creation. We hope that the locals, now and in the future, derive joy and inspiration from them. Each piece tells a story, connecting the community with its heritage and artistry. It is our sincere hope that these works not only enhance the aesthetics of the town but also foster a sense of pride and identity among its residents. We look forward to seeing how these carvings resonate with the community and become an integral part of the local landscape, sparking conversations and memories for years to come. Our commitment to quality and craftsmanship is reflected in these pieces, and we are thrilled to have contributed to the cultural tapestry of Cookstown.
