Putney sculpture trail

Putney is home to a unique one-mile sculpture trail along its riverside, with a varied series of works by a nationally recognised sculptor.

Sculptor Alan Thornhill, now 86, has lived in the area for many years and still retains studios locally. He has presented the community with eight nearly life-size figurative pieces of sculpture.

'Load', has stood on Putney Embankment outside what is now Thai Square for over 20 years and has been enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.  It has now been integrated into the Putney Sculpture Trail.

Now, following the official launch of The Putney Sculpture Trail in September 2008, all nine sculptures can be seen in prime riverside locations.

The Putney Sculpture Trail proposals were developed by the Putney Town Centre Partnership, in cooperation with the sculptor and Wandsworth Council. The project was part funded by a grant of £25,000 from the Western Riverside Environmental Fund (WREF).

The balance of the costs of installing the eight sculptures came from Wandsworth Council's Town Centre Improvements Scheme programme.

The official launch was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the sculpture 'Punch and Judy' outside Rocket Riverside restaurant in Putney Wharf and was attended by the artist, senior members of Wandsworth Council and around 130 onlookers.

Alan Thornhill's near life-sized figurative sculptures are by their very nature distinctive and designed for display in public places

Town centre manager Stephen Wallace said:

"This is Alan Thornhill's gift to the people of Putney. It is an amazingly generous gesture. To be able to display so many sculptures by a respected artist represents a real coup for the town centre.

"This unique display of public art takes its place as a prominent feature of Putney's rich cultural heritage."

What do you think of the Putney Sculpture Trail?