After a 10 year journey to install two sculptures of social reformers Thomas and Fanny Holcroft, last month saw the unveiling of the long-awaited artworks celebrating their enduring legacy, outside a housing estate in Fitzrovia.
The bronze reliefs, displayed on the Carburton Street entrance of Holcroft Court, were created by sculptor Ron Moll, with the project spearheaded by local resident Denise Julien.
Made possible through Westminster Council’s neighbourhood Community Infrastructure Levy, and support from the Fitzrovia West Neighbourhood Forum, the event on 30 September marked the successful culmination of community effort.
On a warm afternoon, friends, family, and around 100 people gathered for live music, performances, and an address from the Lord Mayor of Westminster.
Speaking before the unveiling, Lord Mayor Paul Dimoldenberg noted that the event had been a “very long time coming, but worth the wait”.
Reflecting on the legacy of Thomas Holcroft, he said that the artworks will, “remind us all, of the price that was paid for our freedom… and of the inescapable truth that great change begins with ordinary people taking small actions in service of the greater good.”
He added: “The artwork we will unveil here today does more than just honour the name of a residential block. It invites us to remember his life and his work, and to reflect on the values he stood for: creativity, resilience, and the courage to fight for a better, fairer society. I hope it inspires everyone who lives here, all that visit here, to carry his spirit into the future generations.”
Thomas Holcroft (1745-1809) was born in London and came to live in Clipstone Street in 1778. His daughter Fanny (1780-1844) was a novelist, dramatist, and translator.
Dimoldenberg also thanked Julien, who had “put up with so many roadblocks, so many miles of red tape”, but that ultimately she had “overcome it all”.
Speaking to The Fitzrovia News, Julien said: “I’m so happy. The weather has turned out great, the Lord Mayor looks great — it’s gone brilliantly.”
A resident of Holcroft Court also praised her efforts, saying, “Denise works hard for the community, not only on projects like this, but in keeping the streets clean and the community thriving.”
After the address, performances from dancer Durassie Kiangangu, and singer Jessica de Giudici brought the celebration to life, helped along by the gorgeous London sun.
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