Iconic artwork inspired by Sheffield's '˜hidden rivers' unveiled in city centre

Artist Richard Perry, who also created the sculptures in the city’s Peace Gardens, carved features inspired by the city’s waterways into the stonework at the residential, leisure and commercial complex.

It was officially unveiled this week by the artist, councillor Leigh Bramall, the deputy leader of Sheffield City Council and cabinet member for business and economy, and David Topham of property development group CTP.

Richard said: “The idea is inspired by the ‘hidden rivers’ of Sheffield, creating a form with a fluid flow emulating the passage of pedestrians coming down the stairs from St Paul’s Place. I have taken flow, weir, strata, journey and movement as themes.

“The gradient and the physical properties of the site are taken into account by echoing the large stepped elements in front of the wall with allusion to weirs. 

“The focal point at the corner of the main elevation is inspired by a sense of travel around one elevation to the next, alluding to the way water courses form eddies when flowing against an edge or bank and when changing direction abruptly.”

Coun Bramall added: “The artwork at 3 St Paul’s Place ensures the city’s commitment to quality development around the Peace Gardens continues.

“It provides a distinctive visual accompaniment that continues up the new staircase, through the impressive St Paul’s Place and on to the Winter Garden.

“I was pleased to know that the artwork was designed by the man who helped carve some of the artwork in the Peace Gardens.”