Laurence Payot has been commissioned to create a new public statue in Blackpool, as part of Blackpool’s Quality Corridor Programme. The design has developed from a community consultation phase led by the artist, engaging with various community groups and local residents in the town.
‘Call of the Sea’ will be a painted bronze statue, a realistic replica of a young girl from the Blackpool area, posing as if she was a street performer, covered in blue paint and shells.
With a raised hand and determined look, she will send an environmental and activist message.
Charlotte (portrayed) has been chosen to be the model for the statue. She is a young girl from the Blackpool area, passionate about the environment. She represents the drive and motivation that young people have shown in recent years to fight against the environmental crisis we face today. She embodies our hope for a better future.
Charlotte: “I was born in Blackpool. I couldn’t imagine living away from the sea, it has intrigued me from a very young age. The sea has so many hidden features, which makes it so interesting. When I recently learned to Scuba dive, a whole new world has opened in front of my eyes.
I have always been passionate about the environment, and I wanted to learn more about how I could help to make a difference. Last year, I went to Bali, where I learned about making artificial reef structure out of cement, clay and calcium, to try and revive damaged coral reefs. I also worked in Tianyar with local schools to raise awareness of plastic pollution. For my English Language GCSE, I researched and spoke about the impact of pollution and in particular fracking on water. I now have a deeper understanding of the effect of pollution on the environment.
I regularly volunteer with the Windmill Project to upkeep parkland in Blackpool. I am also a member of the open access group at the Oracle.
I am pleased to help Laurence create this work, I’m representing my generation, who has become more aware of the problems we now face. We live at a turning point, we need to take action, and this is what this statue represents, looking after and fighting for our environment and our future.”
