In February 2021 I won the commission for the design and production of a gift to the Queen from members of both Houses of Parliament, celebrating the Platinum Jubilee and to be situated in New Palace Yard, which is at the base of the clock tower popularly known as Big Ben. The specification called for a sculpture featuring the heraldic beasts of the UK, also to serve as an illuminated beacon. The design challenge for me was to create a monument of sufficient scale to celebrate the enduring service of the Queen, whilst also respecting this iconic location. By making a pair of beacons and positioning them on the main axis of Westminster Hall, above the steps up to the green, and paving the area between them, I was able to create a new and significant architectural space within this sensitive site. Stylistically and iconographically I let myself be guided by the work of Pugin, for whom the Palace was his masterpiece, providing me with copious inspiration and design reference.
The time available for realising the scheme, from the initial vision statement to installation and commissioning, was one year. This was an extremely tight programme, facilitated by the outstanding craftsmanship and professionalism of the Morris Singer Foundry, Sugg Lighting and Stonewest Ltd, who laid the paving.
Looking back on the commission I recognize the huge privilege of being trusted with the work. I enjoyed working closely with the project committee which included the Speakers of both Houses, as well as Michael Ellis MP who oversaw the project for parliamentarians.