00:00And Lady in Blue reflects the sophistication of this city.
00:05This sculpture pays homage to a metropolitan woman, a quotidian figure like many who might encounter this work.
00:13She is not a figure from our historical or political past, but rather a symbol of our shared future ambitions.
00:21She reflects equity through representation, acknowledgement, and action, proposing a reality where all citizens can be consulted and appreciated for
00:33their unique contributions.
00:35Lady in Blue represents a feature where the ordinary individual is recognized for their extraordinary capabilities.
00:46Made of bronze, Lady of Blue embraces the materiality of Chalfalgar Square's historical works.
00:54Yet, she stands apart, painted in a bright blue, demonstrating a poignant shift.
01:00Her jewelry references lapis lazuli, a rare, refined gemstone treasured since antiquity.
01:08I am eternally thankful to my team at Factum in Madrid, who brought this sculpture to life.
01:14From the initial sketches to the monumental work that is being unveiled today.
01:19To have Lady in Blue in Chalfalgar Square in the heart of this city is profound.
01:25Chalfalgar Square is a historical site where people gather, protest, celebrate, mourn, and most importantly, connect.
01:32It's a space for the people.
01:34The fourth plinth is funded by the Mayor of London with support from Arts Council England and Bloomberg Philanthropies.
01:42The programme invites world-class artists to make work for Trafalgar Square with a new sculpture installed on the fourth
01:50plinth every two years.
01:53Fifteen works have been displayed on the plinth since 1999.
01:56Selve's work has invited both criticism and support, with some praising its socio-political message and aesthetic,
02:06while others have raised concerns over its contrast to the surrounding environment.
02:10We each can participate in world-building, much like the historical figures displayed in this here square.
02:18I hope Lady in Blue invites audiences to pause, to look up, and see themselves as powerful amongst the idols
02:27of our shared past.
02:29Lady in Blue is not static.
02:31She's in motion.
02:32Her agency lies within her movement, and ultimately, I believe she will inspire all who see her to find optimism
02:41and the courage to move forward and do so in community with others around them.
02:47Sincerely, I want to thank London for welcoming her, and for welcoming me.
02:52Thank you to everyone who believed in this work, and I hope Lady in Blue can become a companion to
02:59us all.
Comments