"Reflections of Bedford"

2009. Sculptor: Rick Kirby
Location: High Street end of Silver Street

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This very large, five metre-high, abstract work in stainless welded-steel, featuring two enormous faces staring at each other, almost nose to nose, was erected on 12 December 2009. It was meant to represent the diversity of ethnic backgrounds in the town and its links with brick and lace. At night it is illuminated with coloured lights. The faces, etched with brick shapes and with a lace design, are designed to be viewed from the High Street, on entering the pedestrian precinct of Silver Street. The back of the flat concave ' faces' are plain. Commissioned by Bedford Borough Council it was, for many people, a controversial work when it first appeared, on account of its size, form, cost (£100,000) and alleged lack of public consultation. The aim was to provide an exciting new focus for shoppers and visitors to the town.

The Sculptor

Rick Kirby (born 1952) trained at Somerset College of Art and Newport Art College and after a period of teaching, decided to concentrate on sculpting, initially in stone. Other public art works can be viewed around the country, in parks and town centres, including a figurative sculpture outside St Thomas' s Hospital, Lambeth, London.