Sculptures have been an integral part of the garden since it was created in the 18th century, and now a new one is being added by artist in residence Fiona Bowley.

final stages

She will be working on the sculpture throughout the year and some of the 300,000 people who visit the World Heritage Site annually will have the chance to see the final stages being completed on the estate.

Ms Bowley, who was selected as the artist in residence on the estate for 2009 as part of the Inspired by Heritage project organised by Art Connections, studied art in Leeds before training as a stone mason and carver in the construction industry.

She worked on a number of restoration programmes at York Minster before leaving to work on freelance public art projects.

'thrilled'

"I'm thrilled to have been chosen to take part in this fantastic new project at a site as awe-inspiring as Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal," said the artist.

"To be able to create a piece of work which will be sited among the statues and follies in the Georgian Water Garden is certainly a daunting, but wonderful opportunity."