Menary was commissioned by a Altrusa Ashburton member Kaye Horsborough to carve the sculptures, with the brief that it should in some way represent women. The result is the artist’s intuitive representation of elements of womanhood and femininity.

The works were carved from Mt Somers limestone boulders, collected from the quarry, and stand on concrete plinths at the town end of 'the Green', across the road from the clocktower.

Plaques at the base of the sculptures read:

[South-West sculpture:]

SPIRIT OF WOMAN

Sculptures presented by / Altrusa International Inc of Ashburton / to mark 25 years of club service, and the millennium / recognising the contribution women / give to the community.

[North-east sculpture:]

SPIRIT OF WOMAN

Sculpture 1 The strong buttress forms show strength and a connection to nature rising to support life and growth, while above the resting face of woman looks towards the light.

Sculpture 2 In clear profile the emergent woman rises. Notice the womanly form symbolising the nurturing aspect and the three faces, separate as individuals yet connected as a group. The hair extends from reeded leaves and the tresses are in the artistic style of the Pacific region.