or just known as the Diver the statue is located in the Thames at Rainham. As is obvious the tide was out when I visited - usually it is partially submerged. Twice a year it it completely underwater. I will have to consult the tide tables before visiting again so I can get some photos of it partially submerged.
6 comments:
Pardon my saying so, but that is one fugly statue. Better that diver go under water where he belongs, on a permanent basis!
I'd never heard of it before until I saw it on your site.
Makes me wonder why they bothered, but hey, there's always the lovely sculpture in Romford Market to admire ;-)
Oh ewbl I'm sure he looks better partially submerged.
Actually Alison I wonder why too but I photographed it becasue it was there and it is local... As for those fine sculptures in the Marketplace..... What is there to say about them apart from ugh!
the handiness of somewhere to chain your bike to??
That is true. Particularly handy for a pint or twelve at the Golden Lion!
It's great you went to see The Diver: Regeneration and are spreading the word about it. It is a unique sculpture because it is the only one in the Thames. You are entitled to your opinion about it, of course. That's what public art is about- it invites engagement with and comment from the public. I'm interested to see people are wondering 'why they bothered'. The sculpture was designed and built by my father who sadly died shortly after it was opened and before he could put into action his many other projects he had in mind for the borough. Thankfully I know why he bothered because I know the historical context of the piece- which you can find detailed on Wikipedia. But also I know why he bothered from a personal sense- why anyone should bother- because life is brief and we are soon forgotten and it is our endeavours now, whilst we are alive- for ourselves or for the community- that may, hopefully, have some meaning for others, however small. These meanings may leave a small trace of something important that may spark other things in ways you can't imagine at the outset. I guess this is why you bother being a blogger- because it reaches out and connects you to others and shares your ideas so you- and they- are less alone. My father was an amazing, inspirational man- passionate, selfless and visionary. His passion was infectious. Thankfully, he bothered. Lucy Kaufman
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