Messums Creative and East Suffolk Council have co-commissioned Suffolk-based artist Laurence Edwards to create a permanent landmark bronze sculpture for Lowestoft.

Known for his powerful figurative sculptures and public installations, Laurence has developed an ongoing relationship with the community in Lowestoft through a series of landmark works presented on South Beach as part of Sculpture on the Sands, delivered in partnership with Messums East and First Light Festival. From Chthonic Head emerging with the tide to the internationally recognised Walking Men series, these installations have drawn audiences of thousands to the shoreline.

Laurence's work often features life-sized or larger-than-life human figures, distinguished by dynamic forms and richly textured surfaces that explore the relationship between people and their environment.

The commissioned sculpture will emerge through an extended period of research, conversation and making with the people of Lowestoft. As the first artist-in-residence at the Post Office, Laurence will establish a public-facing ground-floor studio and work closely with residents, schools, colleges, young people and community groups over the coming years to shape the themes and ideas behind the work.

The project will evolve through participation, dialogue and a growing sense of collective ownership. Visitors to the studio will be able to encounter the process of sculpture-making at close hand, following the development of the work from initial conversations and studies through to its final casting in bronze.

The final sculpture, set to be cast and fabricated at his Halesworth foundry, will be jointly funded by Laurence, his patrons, and East Suffolk Council. Potential locations for the sculpture are being explored, ensuring the chosen site reflects the themes and ideas that will emerge through community engagement.

If you would like to be involved and to hear more about Laurence's residency, please complete the expression of interest form below: