Public Art Commission – Statues of HRH Queen Elizabeth II
The Andover Statue
The life-size statue of Queen Elizabeth II that will be sited in Andover depicts the Queen in her later years, wearing her robe of state. The designs on the robe include ideas gathered at a number of creative workshops held at Andover Nursing Home, Roman Way Primary School, Anton and Portway Junior Schools, Mark Way School, Pilgrims Cross School, and the Second Sundays market.
Inspired by the workshops, the design features intricate relief artwork adorning the flowing robe, capturing poignant moments such as the Queen riding Burmese at Trooping the Colour, Windsor Castle, and her dearly loved Fell pony, Emma. Two of Her Majesty’s Corgis are inscribed, and flags representing the Commonwealth of Nations and the Union Jack, intertwine with the natural world, featuring an array of symbolic flowers and foliage synonymous with the Queen. From local landmarks and events such as the Land Forces HQ Andover building and Her Majesty’s visit to Andover in 1993, to global milestones in science and endeavour, the artwork weaves together local, national, and international narratives. The inclusion of poppies serves as a reminder of remembrance, complemented by the presence of her two Gurkha Orderly Officers standing guard, adding a solemn touch to the composition.
Finally, a series of relevant quotes will be inscribed next to the imagery, including the Queen’s own words to her subjects in her 21st Birthday message of 1947, four years before she become queen: "I declare before you that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service".
A mould was taken from the clay and the final bronze sculpture has now been cast in sections in the Talos Art Foundry. The next stages involve fettling, welding, and fine chasing to refine the metalwork. The location of the Andover statue has been confirmed as Town Mills Riverside Park.
