Fourteen people from Lichfield and Burntwood have come together as part of a project to help design a monument to Erasmus Darwin.

A sculpture takes shape in the workshop
A sculpture takes shape in the workshop

The project, which was held at Erasmus Darwin House, saw participants working alongside a team of artists to say exactly how they would like the public art in their area to take shape.

The final piece which is currently being funded will be located within the Museum Garden alongside the pre-existing sculpture collection, in the soon to be redeveloped Beacon Park, and will be a permanent bronze monument to one of Lichfield’s most famous sons.

The results alongside a professional final design of the future monument inspired by the workshops will be exhibited in the New Year.

Lead artist Peter Walker said:

“We were delighted with the way the group embraced the concept of designing a statue, and the results and ideas they produced were excellent. They have played a major role in immortalising in bronze the legacy of this great figure. The inclusion of the monument within the redeveloped park will mean that residents and visitor alike will be able to enjoy the sculpture for years to come and Erasmus will rightfully get recognition in the centre of a city which was so close to his heart.”

Local residents taking part in the workshop
Local residents taking part in the workshop

The workshop groups comprised a cross section of the community, with pupils from the Friary School, Netherstowe High School, Chase Terrace Technical College and Chasetown High School, mixing with Darwin enthusiasts, members of the Lichfield Society of Arts, Lichfield College students, and other interested individuals.

Peter added:

“It is important that when placing public sculpture in the city, the community gets involved at all stages and that the artworks produced are not just imposed in our shared environment. but truly belong to the city.”

The workshops have been funded by Stafford County Council Community Art Fund and are part of 52 Weeks of Art, which is supported by the Arts Council West Midlands. The project patrons include Desmond King-Hele and Adam Hart Davis.

For more information and to be informed of future projects visit www.52weeksofart.com or contact [email protected].

Founder of Lichfield Live and editor of the site.