Growing Form

It stands around 2.8 metres (9 ft 2 in) tall, with the upper portions in cast aluminium and the lower part a granite pedestal.

Merchant had intended the piece to be surrounded by two rows of slate columns; due to budget constraints this element was not installed and instead it was enclosed by a circle of trees.

[2] The work shows the influence of modernist sculptor Barbara Hepworth on Merchant, who was a clergyman who turned to sculpture late in life.

[2] George T. Noszlopy and Fiona Waterhouse writing in 2005 described it as "symbolic of nature's struggle for life" and "reminiscent of a sprouting seed".

The Burton Music Centre brass band performed at the unveiling and it was followed by a dedication service at the nearby St Modwen's Church.