Will the New Queen Statue Capture Grandeur and Dignity?

In a momentous decision, the sculptor Martin Jennings has been selected to create a statue of the late Queen Elizabeth II for her national memorial in St James's Park, London. The statue aims to encapsulate the "grandeur and dignity" that characterised Britain's longest-reigning monarch, reflecting her global admiration and steadfast commitment to duty.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Martin Jennings, known for his previous works featuring King Charles III, is tasked with creating the Queen's statue.
• The statue will be part of a national memorial in St James's Park, with a budget estimated between £23 million and £46 million.
• Public sentiment will play a significant role in shaping the statue's design, which is set to be revealed in 2026.
• Controversy arises as the anti-monarchy group Republic argues the Royal Family should fund the memorial instead of taxpayers.
• The memorial will also include a statue of Prince Philip and a landscaped area visible from Buckingham Palace.

Understanding the Vision for the Statue

Martin Jennings, the chosen sculptor, expressed his excitement and responsibility in honouring Queen Elizabeth II. He aims to create a representation that reflects her immense legacy, stating, "She was loved and admired across the globe for her steadfast devotion to duty, borne with grace, decency and restraint."

The sculptor's approach emphasises a period of listening to various stakeholders, including organisations and the general public, to gauge their thoughts and feelings about how the Queen should be represented. Jennings acknowledges the strong emotions surrounding the late monarch, indicating a desire to incorporate public sentiment into the final design.

The Memorial's Design and Features

The memorial will be constructed in a prominent area of St James's Park, which is visible from Buckingham Palace. The design, chosen from a shortlist of five concepts, includes a bridge with a balustrade made of glass, inspired by the shape of the late queen's wedding tiara. This artistic choice aims to connect the memorial to significant moments in the Queen's life, adding a personal touch to the overall structure.

In addition to the statue of Queen Elizabeth II, the memorial will also feature a statue of her husband, Prince Philip, who was by her side for 73 years until his death in 2021. The inclusion of a Prince Philip Gate and new gardens further enriches the memorial's significance, creating a space for reflection and remembrance.

Budget and Funding Controversies

The estimated budget for the memorial ranges from £23 million to £46 million. This cost has sparked debate, particularly from the anti-monarchy campaign group Republic. Their chief executive, Graham Smith, has publicly stated that the Royal Family should finance the memorial instead of relying on government funds. Smith's assertion highlights an ongoing discussion about the funding of royal projects and the public sentiment towards the monarchy in contemporary Britain.

The debate over funding reflects broader questions about the monarchy's role in British society and the appropriateness of public investment in royal commemorations. As discussions continue, the Royal Family's response to these calls for funding transparency will be closely monitored.

The Timeline Ahead

The process of designing the statue and memorial is set to unfold over the next few years, with the final designs expected to be presented to King Charles III and the Prime Minister in the coming year. The official unveiling of the statue is projected for 2026, marking a significant moment in the commemoration of Queen Elizabeth II's legacy.

During this period, Jennings will engage with the public and relevant stakeholders to ensure that the memorial resonates with the sentiments of those who cherished the Queen. This collaborative approach may help bridge the gap between royal representation and public expectations, fostering a sense of community ownership over the memorial.

The Importance of Public Sentiment

Public sentiment holds considerable weight in the creation of memorials, especially for figures as revered as Queen Elizabeth II. As Jennings embarks on the design process, he will need to balance artistic vision with the emotional connections people have to the Queen. This approach may lead to a statue that not only honours her life but also serves as a point of unity for the nation.

Collectively, the memorial's design and execution will reflect the values and history that Queen Elizabeth II embodied during her reign. Engaging in meaningful dialogue with the public can ensure that the final product resonates deeply with a diverse audience, recognising the multifaceted legacy of the late monarch.

What Happens Next?

The coming months and years will be pivotal in shaping the national memorial for Queen Elizabeth II. As Martin Jennings works towards finalising the statue's design, stakeholders and the public will undoubtedly have their eyes on the process. The discussions surrounding funding and design will continue to influence public opinion, and how the Royal Family addresses these issues will be crucial.

Ultimately, this memorial is not just about a statue; it represents a collective memory of a monarch who dedicated her life to serving her country. The dialogue surrounding the memorial's creation will reflect the nation's evolving relationship with its monarchy, a conversation that is as significant as the memorial itself.

FAQs

Who is creating the statue of Queen Elizabeth II?

The statue will be created by sculptor Martin Jennings, known for his previous works depicting notable royal figures.

Where will the memorial be located?

The memorial will be situated in St James's Park, London, in a section that is visible from Buckingham Palace.

What is the estimated budget for the memorial?

The budget for the memorial is estimated to be between £23 million and £46 million, which has sparked discussion about funding sources.

When will the statue be unveiled?

The final design of the statue is set to be revealed in 2026, with the designs being presented to the King and the Prime Minister next year.

What other features will the memorial include?

In addition to the statue of Queen Elizabeth II, the memorial will feature a statue of Prince Philip, a Prince Philip Gate, and landscaped gardens.

The creation of a national memorial for Queen Elizabeth II encapsulates not just her legacy but also the evolving perception of the monarchy in modern Britain. As discussions surrounding the design and funding continue, it will be intriguing to see how public sentiment shapes this significant tribute to a beloved monarch. #QueenElizabeth #MartinJennings #RoyalMemorial