In a new short film, Simon Hitchens, the artist behind plans for a major monument dedicated to Queen Elizabeth II in Northumberland, shares the importance of ‘The Elizabeth Landmark’. Donned as a “permanent celebration” of The Queen’s reign and a sign of “international importance” in the wake of the Coronation of King Charles III.
This is Hitchens’ first interview since he was granted planning permission for the 55m sculpture in the heart of the Northumberland countryside, Cold Law. The landmark will be set with a wild landscape of 25 acres and will include a walking trail open to the public around the clock. In addition, it will incorporate historical and geographical characteristics of the location.
On property Hitchens describes as “magical,” it is expected work will begin on the site later this year. But, it costs money to build and in the meantime, the team behind The Elizabeth Landmark will be on an international fundraising quest for what is expected to be a £9m venture.
The Landmark will be made of Corten weathering steel and complemented by the shapes and colours of the landscape around it. It will be built to match other geographical features in Cold Law including the same topographical height as the nearby Queen Victoria Cairn and Hepple Heugh. It will be made out of materials that echo the history of the site including minerals, stone, and iron ore. Bringing together multiple elements of unity, heritage, and celebration.
Hitchens said of the project: “The Cold Law Hill on which the landmark will be situated informs the entire sculpture.
“The scale, the location and the orientation of the hill itself have all been intrinsic to the design, such that the sculpture seems as if it could have risen from the ground.
“I think I just want people to be wowed by something extra-ordinary.”
Designed to be an “elegant, blade-like form,” it will stand taller than Nelson’s Column in not only a salute to the United Kingdom’s heritage. But also a nod to the future reign of the newly-crowned monarch, King Charles.
To watch the film and find out more about the project, you can click here.