In the Spring of 2002, a competition was held at the prestigious Cass Sculpture Foundation in Goodwood, England. Six shortlisted artists presented their ideas and exhibited maquettes to a jury made up of historians, journalists, architects and art experts. After a day of deliberations, the Committee selected my design as the winner and so started the process to create a monument to the Battle of Britain in the heart of London. The narrative relief panels within my proposal were considered to be the most appropriate way of commemorating this pivotal moment in the Nation’s history for that particular location. The form of the design was far from complete but the overall concept was considered the one most aesthetically appropriate to the historic surroundings of the Victoria Embankment, a design that was both educational and affordable.
Working in tandem with the architects Donald Insall Associates, we developed my early sketches into a viable project that was more elaborate and sophisticated than the original. This was largely due to a significant revision of the budget and fundraising ambition. The completed designs were subsequently approved by the Westminster Public Arts Advisory Panel, despite some degree of hostility towards the figurative ideas within my proposal. Ultimately, when the final design was submitted, it was applauded, even by those who had been sceptical.
N.B. The terra cotta original sculptures for this monument are looking for a permanent resting place. To enquire please contact the artist.
