Field is now returning to the town where it was created using local Ibstock clay, to be exhibited at St Helens College.
It will take volunteers – including some of the original makers - a week to install the artwork in a specially constructed space. It will then open to the public on June 20 2008, and stay on show until August 23 (free entry).
"Field has special significance for St Helens having been crafted here 15 years ago by local people," said Councillor Richard Ferry, St Helens Executive Member for Urban Regeneration, "so it is fantastic news that we have succeeded in bringing it home at last."
The arresting installation comprises a sea of miniature terracotta figures, clustered together. Some stand out because of their size and character; others are greyer than the earthy reds of the majority. The overall sight is mesmerising.
Winner of the 1994 Turner Prize, Gormley is known for his distinctive representations of the human form, including the famous Angel of the North.
The artist described Field as "25 tons of clay energised by fire, sensitised by touch and made conscious by being given eyes … a field of gazes which looks at the observer making him or her its subject."
The Arts Council purchased Field in 1995 and it has since been shown in a variety of venues by over 400,000 people.
"The fact that this internationally renowned artwork will be on display over the peak summer months of the year that neighbouring Liverpool is European Capital of Culture means that the exhibition will attract even greater numbers of visitors from the UK and abroad to the town centre than normal," said Cllr Ferry.
St Helens College is on Water Street, St Helens, WA10 1PP
