Modern
sculpture also makes an important contribution to public life - it
is seen as the ultimate symbol of urban regeneration.
Interest
in public art is growing, so expect to see more examples springing
up in the near future - including additions to the new millennium
sculpture on Eastgate roundabout.
Each
sculpture has its own story to tell, so take a virtual tour of some
that you've probably seen before...
What
better place to start than with the famous figures and equestrian
sculpture in Leeds City Square?
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The
Black Prince
Thomas Brook, 1903 |
Leeds'
famous Black Prince in City Square was a gift from Colonel Thomas
Walter Harding, Lord Mayor of Leeds between 1898-9.
Despite
having no connection with Leeds, the son of King Edward III became
the landmark that greets visitors arriving at the city station.
The
King was the personal choice of Harding, who believed he symbolised
the virtues of democracy and chivalry.
The
Black Prince is the centrepiece of an array of statues in the square,
which include Joseph Priestley, the father of modern chemistry.
From
here, head along Infirmary Street towards Bond Court, behind Est
Est Est.
 |
Game
of Boules
Roger Burnett, 2000 |
This
bronze sculpture in Bond Court depicts a Yorkshire couple
and their child watching a Frenchman playing boules.
Before
the unveiling of this sculpture few people were aware that the patch
of grey gravel it stands next to is actually a boules court.
Instructions and boules are available at the court, so you need
never have a lazy lunch hour again.
Up
to the Headrow for our next sculptures...
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The
Reclining Woman
Henry Moore, 1929 |
This
eye-catching lady has been luring people into the Leeds Art Gallery
since she was given to them in 1980 by the Henry Moore Institute.
During
his lifetime Castleford-born Moore studied at Leed College of Art
and received an Orderof Merit in 1963.
One
of the most famous sculptors of the 20th century, he believed sculpture
was "the art of open air."
 |
Four
Lions
William Keyworth, 1867 |
The
white lions guarding the Town Hall are thought to have been inspired
by the lions carved on Nelson's.
The
lions were added to the entrance nine years after it was officially
opened by Queen Victoria.
Folklore says that the lions get up and walk around the building
when they hear the clock strike twelve.
Now walk down the Headrow towards and past the Light.
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The
Dortmund Drayman
Arthur Schulze-Engels, 1980 |
Affectionately
known as 'The Barrelman' this jolly figure is outside the St John's
Centre.
The
statue was a gift from Leeds' twin town Dortmund in 1980 and stands
in the square of that name.
Now we head up past the Merrion Centre to Hyde Park for more
sculptures.
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