Jul 29, 2024
We have some new additions to our courtyard at the Curwen Print Study Centre. 'The London River Man’ is a resin version of the bronze sculpture which is located on the Isle of Dogs by the late John W Mills, PPRBS ARCA FRSA, former Curwen Trustee. We are very grateful to John's daughter, Andrea Mills, for donating this to us for our courtyard. Both versions of the sculpture are inscribed: "This sculpture salutes all London River Workers - Tosshers - Bargees - Dockers - Aletasters - Coalheavers - Ferrymen & Co."
The 'London River Man' is now joined by a stone carved sculpture (pictured above) by Sam Alper, OBE.
Sam Alper was one of the Curwen Print Study Centre's founders who sadly died in 2002. This sculpture depicting his son as a young boy was created in 1976. It was on display for many years at Chilford Hall, where we moved from in 2022. Sam's son, Simon, has generously relocated this piece to us for all our visitors to enjoy.
Curwen has always had a relationship with sculpture and sculptors; Dame Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore and Dame Elisabeth Frink- who was originally from Great Thurlow- all worked with Curwen Master Printer Stanley Jones MBE for many years on their lithographs.
We are extremely greatful also to Des Stanley, a Master Mould Maker and sculpture expert who came to repair and restore 'The London River Man'. Des had worked with John W Mills on one of his most acclaimed sculptures, the 'Monument to the Women of World War II' which was unveiled by the late Queen Elizabeth II at The Cenotaph in London. As 'The London River Man' is a resin cast, and had cracks in its structure, holes and a rotting wooden plinth. He is now looking as good as new after some repairs and conservation treatment. Come and take a look for yourself!