Embracing the Future: A New Vision for Trafalgar Square's Historic Landmark
A Symbolic Unveiling in the Heart of London
This autumn, Trafalgar Square will host the installation of 'Lady in Blue,' a new sculpture by the acclaimed New York artist, Tschabalala Self. Fashioned from bronze and adorned with a rare ultramarine hue derived from lapis lazuli, the artwork evokes traditional themes of the sacred and celestial, a pigment favored by Renaissance masters for its profound depth.
The Artist's Vision: A Woman for the People
Self describes 'Lady in Blue' as a figure many can connect with, not as an object of worship or a historical monument, but as a woman moving with purpose into a shared future. She embodies the spirit of London, celebrating its residents and their collective aspirations. The artist also acknowledges the City of London's crucial role in her artistic development, highlighting significant career milestones achieved there, including her first institutional exhibition and the debut of her initial major painting series.
The Prestigious Fourth Plinth: A Canvas for Contemporary Art
Trafalgar Square's four plinths each hold a unique significance. While three permanently feature statues of 19th-century British luminaries, the northwestern Fourth Plinth serves as a rotating platform for contemporary art. Curated by The Fourth Plinth Commissioning Group, it is globally recognized as a leading venue for public sculpture.
A Legacy of Artistic Innovation
'Lady in Blue' will succeed Teresa Margolles's 'Mil Veces un Instante (A Thousand Times in an Instant)' (2024). Previous esteemed commissions include Samson Kambalu's 'Antelope' (2022), Heather Phillipson's 'THE END' (2020), Michael Rakowitz's 'The Invisible Enemy Should Not Exist' (2018), and David Shrigley OBE's 'Really Good' (2016), each contributing to the plinth's rich artistic heritage.
Inspiring London's Cultural Landscape
Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and the Creative Industries, expressed her enthusiasm for Self's work. She noted that the sculpture, with its depiction of a confident young woman stepping forward with resolve, will be a striking addition to London's historic urban fabric. Simons anticipates that it will inspire residents, tourists, and art enthusiasts, further enriching the city's vibrant cultural scene.