A man from Little Chalfont who was commissioned to create a sculpture has had his work erected in London. 

Joe Duggan, who hails from South Bucks, produced his new piece of work, ‘Echo’.

This artwork stands at four metres tall and resembles a hastily erected metal scaffolding with a concrete boulder precariously balanced on top, seemingly defying gravity’s force.

Echo is Duggan’s first UK public sculpture commission, and with support of the Henry Moore Foundation and the 2024 Bloomsbury Festival, it currently stands in Russell Square Gardens. 

The piece of work is inspired by the rich heritage of Russell Square Gardens and the British Museum’s collection, the guiding ideologies of planned architectural environments, and Camden’s Irish community, Echo weaves cultural narratives into its form.

Duggan’s use of reclaimed building materials underscores his commitment to sustainability, challenging traditional sculpture norms.

Running concurrently at Senate House, UCL, Duggan’s exhibition Natural Frequencies and Other Devices features eight smaller sculptures evoking invisible forces like wind, radio signals, and WiFi, using them as metaphors for unnoticed yet impactful influences.

Speaking on the experience, Mr Duggan said: “Receiving this commission and having my sculpture exhibited in Russell Square Gardens is a significant milestone in my career.

“It’s a privilege to contribute to such a historic space, and as an Irish artist, it carries personal meaning to represent my heritage within the UK’s cultural scene.

“I’m also deeply grateful for the support of the Henry Moore Foundation, which has made this achievement even more special.”