Following last year’s unveiling of the prominent and majestic deer sculpture marking the entrance to Beaulieu, off White Hart Lane in Chelmsford, a second public art installation has now been approved at the prestigious new development on the edge of the city. Developers Countryside and L&Q have commissioned artist Matthew Lane Sanderson to produce a sculptural piece that will become a focal point at the second entrance to Beaulieu, as part of a complete programme of public art, central to the scheme’s masterplan.

Comprising the regal reflection of a stag under a tree, fabricated from zinc-coated steel and set on a crown base, the intricate spherical sculpture has been designed to reflect the heritage of the site, a former deer park owned by King Henry VIII as part of his Tudor Palace and estate parkland. Due to be unveiled early next year, this permanent artwork, which will measure 10 metres in height, will be installed in a prominent position at the second entrance to Beaulieu, off Essex Regiment Way (A130).

The sculpture, is being created as part of the first phase of this substantial development, which includes new homes at Beaulieu Heath and Beaulieu Chase, and the Beaulieu Square Neighbourhood Centre comprising shops, a day nursery, Beaulieu Community Centre and healthcare facilities.

Matthew Lane Sanderson explains: “I’m am extremely excited and honoured to be given the opportunity to create such a landmark for Beaulieu. It is a challenge of unprecedented scale for me, and I hope that all who eventually see this work will enjoy the embedded history, engineering and art within it in equal measure. It shall forever mark the status of this place both past, present, and future. And it is a symbol that not only conveys the beauty of natural form, but the hope we all share for balance in all things.”

Andrew Carrington, Managing Director of Strategic Land at Countryside said: “We have had such a positive reaction to the family of deer sculpture we unveiled last summer, so we are excited to be working with Matthew Lane Sanderson on the second piece of public art, which will serve as an appropriate way marker to Beaulieu. The artwork fittingly provides a connection to the regal history of this location and along with the other elements of the public art programme, will add to Beaulieu’s distinct character.”

Jerome Geoghegan, Group Director, Development and Sales, at L&Q says: “We are delighted to have commissioned this second important art installation, which will welcome everyone to the site, providing a glorious tribute to its rich history and natural setting, as well as the promise of its exciting growth and development. Our comprehensive programme of public art will continue to both capture and enhance the unique spirit of Beaulieu and we are looking forward to unveiling this striking piece soon.”

Matthew Lane Sanderson creates beautifully crafted ingenious focal points for permanent display. Originally trained in silversmithing and jewellery, today Matthew uses industrial materials in his designs, creating bold yet delicate and graceful sculptures, using traditional crafts to manipulate modern day materials. The Steel in this Beaulieu sculpture is to be from 95% recycled sources and the energy used to fold and fuse it is 100% renewable.

For more information about the new homes and facilities planned for Beaulieu, please visit www.beaulieu.uk.com

Information correct at time of publication.