Contemporary art will bring the historic community of Stanmore together, as a striking sculpture by leading modern artist Andy Hazell is to be unveiled today (23rd April) at St Edward's lakeside development, Stanmore Place.
Perched in front of a stunning feature lake, The Seed, which stands 8 metres in height, is constructed of polished stainless steel. Inspired by Stanmore Place's flourishing new community, The Seed is a metaphor for a new development, with the idea of putting down roots and settling. The Seed's form, similar to that of an aircraft wing, with ribs and spars, is further reinforced with the local areas link with Bentley Priory and its associations with the Battle of Britain.
The ceremony hosted by St Edward, will be attended by residents, local groups and community leaders from across the area, including senior officials from the London Borough of Harrow and the Harrow Heritage Trust.
In an exclusive celebration, The Seed is set to be unveiled by Cllr Ajay Maru, Mayor of Harrow, Martin Verden, Chairman of Harrow Heritage Trust, Angus Michie, Divisional Chairman of Berkeley St Edward, and pupils from nearby Whitchurch Junior School. The unveiling marks a major milestone in the development of Stanmore's newest community, which is now home to approximately 600 residents. When fully complete, Stanmore Place will comprise of almost 800 new homes across 15 acres of award-winning landscaped grounds.
The unveiling of The Seed follows the recent launch of Royal Crescent, the latest collection of homes at Stanmore Place, which boasts a contemporary collection of 103 one, two and three bedroom apartments and penthouses. The Stanmore area is undergoing major regeneration, while the marshes, a scenic retreat, has been shortlisted for an investment of £175,000 by the Mayor of London as part of a programme to preserve green spaces.
Angus Michie, Divisional Chairman, Berkeley St Edward, said: "The unveiling of The Seed is the perfect opportunity for the residents at Stanmore Place to come together and celebrate the strong community feel which has been created here. It is fitting that we now have a symbolic piece of art for generations to come.
"I am delighted that so many members of the Stanmore community have come today to witness the unveiling, and I hope that residents and visitors will agree with me that it provides a another impressive focal point to be enjoyed by all."
The unique piece of art's use of stainless steel acts as a mirror reflecting light, whilst providing a beacon on the green plains which surround the sculpture. The Seed is supported by a base of Cor-Ten steel, which is oval in shape and anchors the propeller-like sculpture.
The artist behind the sculpture, Andy Hazell, commented: "Stanmore Place provided plenty of inspiration and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to design The Seed; I loved the concept behind it. During its design I imagined passers-by and residents catching a glimpse of it as they drive past. I'm delighted to finally see it unveiled."