Project Director: Aimee Ambrose
Project Duration: 2013

The use of 'landmark' sculptures as a means of commemorating and regenerating communities is an established practice. Anthony Gormley's 'Angel of the North' and Damien Hirst's 'Verity' are prominent examples. There are also many lesser known examples around the country. However, little is known about how they impact on their host communities. A key aim of the research was to compare the intended and actual impacts of a number of landmark sculpture projects in relation to a range of social, educational, physical and health variables in order to learn lessons for future projects of this nature, such as the Man of Steel- a large icon planned to commemorate traditional industries in the Sheffield City Region. The project brought together experts in materials science & engineering, education, inclusion, social work, planning and regeneration from around the University.

The project team also included Caroline Hart; Anne Hollows; Hywel Jones; Pat Morton (Sheffield Hallam University).