Acclaimed artist Karen Newman, known for her depictions of Second World War heroines, has been appointed to design a sculpture for the national memorial to Queen Elizabeth II. The work will be placed on Birdcage Walk in central London and aims to portray the late monarch's 'strong and complex personality'.
Newman, who spent 20 years as a sculptor for Madame Tussauds, said: 'It is a huge honour to be asked to contribute my work to the memorial for Queen Elizabeth II. She was an iconic and unifying figure in our national story.' Her approach will combine elements of the Queen's life, showing her 'both as an icon and as an individual'.
The sculpture will complement a larger statue of the Queen by Martin Jennings, overlooking The Mall, which will now be accompanied by a statue of Prince Philip. The Duke of Edinburgh's figure was originally planned for a gate on Birdcage Walk but will now stand near Marlborough Gate on The Mall, reflecting the Queen and Philip's 'partnership'.
Jennings confirmed his statue will show the Queen standing, in keeping with the tradition for House of Windsor monarchs. He praised Newman's work, saying: 'Her work always has great presence, being both subtle and commanding in equal measure.'
The memorial, designed by Lord Foster, will also feature a 'family of gardens' in St James's Park and a glass unity bridge. Final designs will be unveiled in April, which would have marked the Queen's 100th birthday.
