Honour of Statues by Owen Harvey

Honourable Mention – Personal

Owen Harvey’s series Honour of Statues explores the politically sensitive issue of statues in the UK and features British fencer Ayesha Fihosy. “It’s understood that statues should convey honour, yet so many around the UK portray figures of those who supported or profited from racial violence and segregation,” says Harvey. “On June 7, 2020, the statue of Edward Colston was pulled down in protest in Bristol city centre. This cast a spotlight on the statues we walk past every day, and on what they represent.”

Ayesha is a Black female GB ­fencer who has represented England in the Commonwealth and Senior British Championships. The series explores the symbolism behind the sword and the use of plinths in the presentation of both statues and sportspeople. It celebrates Ayesha’s achievements.

“History has shown us statues that represent what people in the past chose to celebrate; this piece demonstrates the legacies we celebrate today.”

owen-harvey.com