Queen’s sculpture unveiled in Andover’s Riverside Park
A new life-size bronze sculpture of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been unveiled in Town Mills Riverside Park.
Commissioned by TVBC to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee in 2022, it is one of two sculptures created by renowned artist, Amy Goodman. The second piece will be installed in Romsey next year.
The Lord-Lieutenant of Hampshire, Nigel Atkinson, Esq., unveiled the statue on Friday 27 September, alongside Amy Goodman, accompanied by the musical talents of Test Valley Brass.
Amy has worked with the local community and schools to capture important memories of the Queen and her links to the town and used these to create the unique and exquisitely detailed artwork.
The sculpture depicts the monarch in her later years, wearing a robe adorned with pictures inspired by the community. The images capture poignant moments from Her Majesty’s life, as well as companions and places she held dear, from riding her beloved horse, Burmese, at Trooping the Colour, to the serene Windsor Castle, and even her cherished corgis and Fell pony, Emma.
The piece also celebrates the Queen’s links to the Armed Forces, her visit to Andover in 1993, and global milestones in science and human endeavour.
Amy Goodman said: “It has been such an honour and privilege to sculpt our late Queen. I wanted to capture her warmth and humility; she did have such a radiant smile. I’ve also loved engaging with the local community and seeing their ideas come to life which have inspired the designs I have inscribed on her robe.”
Leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Councillor Phil North, added: “This was an incredibly special occasion, and it was an honour that the Lord-Lieutenant, as the personal representative of His Majesty the King in Hampshire, officially unveiled the new sculpture."
"The occasion of Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee was a unique moment in British history and as well as facilitating street parties and beacon lightings, we felt that it was incumbent on us to provide something long lasting to mark that moment, not just for us but for generations to come.
“The artwork stands as a tribute to Her Majesty’s exceptional reign and legacy, as well as the Andover community that helped to shape the final piece.”
The community artwork that inspired the designs on the robe is on display in the former O2 unit in the Chantry Centre for people to view.
