Blitz 1991 London John W. Mills National Monument
Blitz 1991 is a bronze sculpture created by the British artist John W. Mills in memory of the victims of the Blitz, the devastating bombing raids carried out by the German forces against British cities during World War II. The sculpture is located in London, England, at Old Change Court, near St. Paul’s Cathedral, which survived the Blitz and symbolises resilience and hope.
‘BLITZ ‘is the national memorial to the firefighters who lost their lives during the Second World War. Winston Churchill referred to them as “the heroes with grimy faces.”
Mills’ sculpture depicts the bravery and heroism of the firefighters who risked their lives to save others during the war.
The sculpture is highly detailed, with each figure depicted in a dynamic pose that conveys a sense of urgency and intensity. The firefighters’ faces are filled with determination and resolve, while the flames and smoke surrounding them are rendered with great realism and drama.
The BLITZ monument was unveiled by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, on May 4, 1991. The unveiling was a significant event in London, marking the 50th anniversary of the Blitz. The monument serves as a powerful reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of the people of London during this difficult time.
Her Majesty the Queen Mother unveiled the memorial sculpture
“BLITZ” on 4 May 1991.
Front view
Small studio maquette, Bronze sculpture, 1984
“BLITZ” National Firefighters Memorial
Edition of 6’s Price: £ P.O.A.
The sculpture tells the story of three firefighters, a sub-officer directing, and two branch men in action as in any great fire anywhere in the country during the Blitz. The close relationship of these men, so typical of this service, intensified by the horror on the home front, gives the reason for this compact grouping. The details of uniforms, the posture, and the method of holding the branch hose are from that time. The lettering style around the octagonal base lists the 1,027 names of men and women who died in the same typeface used on the wartime ration book, ‘Gill Sans ‘.
Other references & links:
H.M. Queen Elizabeth II unveiling the Women of World War II Monument
John W Mills’ images of Quentin Crisp
ROYAL INSIGHT FEATURE
ART NEWS VIDEOS