The Mayor of Chelmsford, Cllr Duncan Lumley officially unveiled the latest significant piece of public art at Beaulieu in Chelmsford, by Countryside Zest, a joint venture between Countryside and L&Q.

The Mayor of Chelmsford, Cllr Lumley commented: “I believe this incredible new piece of public artwork will contribute towards forming a distinct sense of place, as well as paying tribute to the historic nature of the site.

“I am delighted to see the progress that is being made at Beaulieu; not just in the construction of new homes, shops, schools and community buildings, but also in the provision of such stunning landscaped open spaces that are essential in creating a place that inspires you.”

Created by artist, Matthew Lane Sanderson, the majestic ten meter-tall sculpture sits at one of the entrances to Beaulieu, on the western side of the development.  Matthew was commissioned by Countryside Zest, to produce a landmark sculptural piece that would pay tribute to the site’s rich history and provide a focal point for Beaulieu.

This striking piece of artwork, which has been named “Crowned Stag” by the artist, depicts the reflection of a stag under a tree. It has been hand crafted from zinc-coated steel and is set on a crown base, reflecting the heritage of the site – a former deer park owned by King Henry VIII as part of his Tudor Palace and estate parkland.  The intricate spherical sculpture will be a significant way marker to Beaulieu, visible from the Essex Regiment Way (A130), and is prominently located at one end of ‘The Chase’, the newly created park and gardens  that run throughout the centre of the Beaulieu Chase neighbourhood.

Matthew Lane Sanderson explains:

“It has been very exciting to work on a project of this scale and has truly pushed the fusion of structural engineering, material and art.  I feel honoured to have been trusted with this opportunity and have enjoyed its creation enormously.  My designs often demand an even semi-transparency and a delicate ‘line weight’ in order to support the concept of dreamlike, weightless, spherical worlds.  In this case specifically referencing the past Royal parkland location by use of the deer and a crown and a tree as a symbol of life and regeneration.

“Now it is complete, I am immensely proud of how it has metamorphosed from my original reflective sketch and poem and incredibly grateful to all those who have helped bring it to fruition. This Deer Sphere will live forever in this prominent position in Chelmsford and will, I hope, be admired and enjoyed, by generations to come.

“My aim was to create a symbol that conveyed the beauty of natural form and express the hope we all share for balance of all things in the future.”

The sculpture forms part of a programme of public art that is being delivered as part of the first phase of this substantial development, which includes new homes at Beaulieu Heath, Beaulieu Chase, Beaulieu Keep and the Beaulieu Square Neighbourhood Centre.  The Neighbourhood Centre will comprise a new Sainsbury’s local store together with a variety of other shops, Bright Horizons Day Nursery,  Kip McGrath Education Centre, and Beaulieu Community Centre.  Beaulieu Square is due to open later this year.

Andrew Carrington, Managing Director, Strategic Land at Countryside said: “We welcomed a host of dignitaries today, to mark the occasion of the unveiling of the “Crowned Stag” Sculpture.  This piece of artwork was designed to celebrate the history of our site here at Beaulieu.  Matthew should be very proud of what he has created, it adds regal ambiance as you enter the development and will further enhance the identity and character of Beaulieu.”

Craig Luttman, Regional Managing Director – Counties, at L&Q said: “As our development continues to grow and flourish at Beaulieu I am continually amazed at the speed that this community has blossomed.  This latest piece of artwork needs to be seen to be believed; it is truly breath taking”

Beaulieu is already home to over 150 families.  The new homes are arranged within individually designed character areas. Each area has its own distinct architectural style – so whether you’re looking for a traditional style property or an uber-modern home, there are styles to suit all modern lifestyles. To register your interest in new homes please visit: www.beaulieu.uk.com