Late Queen Elizabeth II to Receive New Sculpture on Central London Street for National Memorial
An acclaimed artist renowned for her depictions of Second World War heroines has been appointed to design a sculpture that aims to "portray the strong and complex personality" of Queen Elizabeth II. This artwork will form a key part of the national memorial dedicated to the late monarch, adding to the commemorative landscape in the heart of London.
Artist Appointment and Vision for the Tribute
Karen Newman, who spent two decades as a sculptor for Madame Tussauds, has been selected to craft the tribute to the late Queen. The sculpture will be situated on Birdcage Walk in central London, a location steeped in historical significance. Newman expressed her honour at being asked to contribute, stating that her approach will combine elements of the Queen's life, depicting her both as "an icon and as an individual."
Newman is a member of the Royal British Society of Sculptors and the Society of Portrait Sculptors. During her tenure at Madame Tussauds, she created wax portrait figures of numerous notable figures, including Prince Philip, former prime ministers Harold Wilson and Sir Tony Blair, as well as celebrities like Stevie Wonder and Yoko Ono.
Complementing Memorial Elements and Design Details
This new sculpture will complement a larger statue of Queen Elizabeth II by sculptor Martin Jennings, which overlooks The Mall on the other side of St James's Park. Jennings confirmed that his design will feature the Queen in a standing position, adhering to the sculptural tradition for kings and queens of the House of Windsor. He emphasised that this choice underscores her role as head of state.
Originally, plans included a statue of Prince Philip to accompany a new Prince Philip Gate on Birdcage Walk, as part of architect Lord Foster's proposals. However, the Cabinet Office announced that Philip's figure will now be placed in a prime spot near Marlborough Gate on The Mall, reflecting the "partnership" between the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh throughout her reign.
Artist Background and Previous Works
Karen Newman's portfolio includes significant bronze memorials, such as one of British secret agent Noor Inayat Khan in Gordon Square Gardens, London. She has also created a bronze head and shoulders of Violette Szabo, located outside Lambeth Palace, and depicted secret agent Nancy Wake, known for her efforts in occupied France.
Jennings welcomed Newman's appointment, praising her work for its "great presence, being both subtle and commanding in equal measure." He is creating his statue as part of a new civic space called Queen Elizabeth II Place at Marlborough Gate, which integrates into the broader commemorative scheme.
Memorial Design and Future Unveilings
Lord Foster, who won the bid to design the national memorial, commended Newman's talent and sensitivity, noting that it will bring a profound sense of dignity to the project. The memorial will also feature a "family of gardens" through St James's Park, complete with meandering paths and a new translucent, glass unity bridge.
The final designs for the memorial are set to be unveiled in April, coinciding with what would have been Queen Elizabeth II's 100th birthday. This timing adds a poignant layer to the commemorations, honouring her legacy in a manner that resonates with the public and history alike.
