Sculptor set to unveil new public artwork in Lichfield

Lichfield’s first new piece of public art in more than 50 years is set to be unveiled.

The 3m long bronze artwork – The Formation of Poetry – by Lichfield-born sculptor Peter Walker is a tribute to the life and work of Samuel Johnson.

It will be unveiled at a ceremony at the Tesco supermarket attended by civic guests and members of the public at 1.30pm on September 18 – Johnson’s 301st birthday.

It has been created from designs developed by students at The Friary School, who worked with artists through a design project in 2008, to develop their own ideas as to the type of art they would like to see on the city’s streets.

Peter explained:

“The sculpture has been inspired by the way in which Samuel Johnson used poetry within the dictionary, as a means of establishing the true nature of the English Language.”

The artwork was recently made at Chasewater Innovation Centre as part of an effort to to maintain local links throughout the project.

The sculpture – which has has been funded by Tesco – forms the central part of an ongoing project which will also see local people offered the opportunity to take part in a number of art workshops.

Peter added:

“Tesco’s investment in the arts through this project sees a clear commitment to supporting the creative industries in the city. The arts are a major part of the national way of life, and through this project we hope to be able not only to leave a lasting legacy through the sculptural artwork produced, but also ignite, introduce and involve people in the arts in their community.”

For more information on the project or the workshops visit www.52weeksofart.com.