This striking figure was unveiled on 16th May 2015 and is only here for a year so make sure you go and see it before May 2016. It is part of a major work called LAND by the famous sculptor Sir Antony Gormley. Commissioned by the Landmark Trust, there are five figures situated throughout Britain to represent the four points of the compass, plus Warwickshire at the heart. This particular statue stands in Lowsonford beside Ned’s lock on the Stratford-upon-Avon canal. A Landmark Trust lock-keeper’s cottage stands nearby.
A human figure reflecting
The polyhedral cast-iron figure is smaller than some of Gormley’s other work (you may have seen the Iron Man looming from the pavement in the centre of Birmingham). It stands looking down into the lock as though reflecting seriously upon life. I have visited twice, and on each occasion there were people clearly enjoying the site, discussing the sculpture and taking photos – I was cursing the fact that I didn’t have my camera with me on the first occasion. And there is a splendid pub nearby: the Fleur de Lys, originator of the famous pies.
Comments
This was a really exciting find in the middle of a bike ride through this stunning little village (Lowsonford). A wonderful place to stop for a drink and a chat. I hope the Landmark Trust will pay to keep these statues in situ to keep ‘Gormleys’ vision on-going.
There is no mention why Gormley chose this spot in Warks…does he know it well, does he know the Fleur de lys, did he like it because it was inland between the coasts. More info please
I’ve done some research on the internet and it seems that the Landmark Trust wanted the figures by their own properties at five waterside locations, with one near the centre of England. Gormley himself chose the exact sites. He does not appear to have ever lived in Warwickshire so I don’t know whether he knew of the Fleur de Lys before this commission! I hope this is helpful.
URGENT: hurry if you want to see this statue because it will be dismantled in May. The Landmark Trust is offering two free open days at the Lengthman’s Cottage beside it on May 14 and 15 (10 am – 4 pm – no need to book). There will be a farewell event at 2.30 pm on the Sunday with canal poems read by Jo Bell and live music by Kerry Andrew.
Where is the Lowsonford statue now?
A good question Gary: I had a look on line and couldn’t find the answer – can anyone else help?
Add a comment about this page