Call of the Sea Statue Celebrates Blackpool’s Award-Winning Coastline A new statue celebrating the importance of protecting Blackpool’s beautiful natural coast and marine life has been unveiled today on Talbot Square.
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he sculpture is one of a number of unique works commissioned as part of the ongoing regeneration plans to make the town centre more attractive to shoppers, residents and investors. The ‘Call of the Sea’ sculpture is sited close to the popular new heritage tram benches by artist Andy Hazell. Artist Laurence Payot wants the life-sized statue to become a new local character inspired by sea goddesses and heroes across cultures. Covered in replica shells and sea life based on those found locally, the statue gives a message of hope for the marine environment that is threatened globally by climate change. The funding for the statue has come to Blackpool from a grant through the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership under its Growth Deal. The design was developed from the results of a community consultation led by the artist and plays with Blackpool’s link to performers using magic and illusion to entertain people, and in particular the traditional street performer disguised as a statue.
Above: Call of The Sea
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LANCASHIRE & NORTH WEST MAGAZINE
During the consultation phase, Laurence spent time with fashion students from Blackpool and The Fylde College, pupils from Blackpool Gateway Academy and the council’s www.lancmag.com
