Dame Elisabeth Frink, a renowned British sculptor and printmaker, was born on November 14, 1930, in Thurlow, Suffolk. Over the course of her illustrious career, Frink emerged as a leading figure in post-war British art, known for her powerful and emotive sculptures that often explored the human and animal form.

Frink studied at the Guildford School of Art and later at the Chelsea School of Art and the Slade School of Fine Art in London. Her early works revealed an affinity for expressing primal and existential themes, influenced by the aftermath of World War II and her interest in the human condition.

In the 1950s, Frink gained recognition for her iconic series of bird sculptures, emphasising their symbolic and mythic qualities. Her subjects evolved to encompass both human and animal figures, characterized by their distinctive rough textures and bold, expressive forms. Notable sculptures include "The Walking Madonna" and "Riace Figures."

A significant portion of Frink's work was dedicated to public commissions, with her sculptures displayed in various locations, including the Yorkshire Sculpture Park and Salisbury Cathedral. Her larger-than-life figures conveyed a sense of strength, vulnerability, and a deep connection to the natural world.

Beyond sculpture, Frink engaged in printmaking, producing a substantial body of graphic works. Her prints often echoed the themes present in her sculptures, displaying a consistent exploration of the human and animal form.

Elisabeth Frink received numerous accolades throughout her career, including being made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1982. She was also the first female artist to be elected as a Royal Academician in over 160 years.

She passed away on April 18, 1993, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence contemporary sculpture. Her ability to convey the essence of the human and animal spirit through powerful and evocative forms solidifies her place as one of the most significant sculptors of the 20th century.