Jacob Chandler
Further images
The first public sculpture discussing disability to be
produced by a disabled artist.
Created for the Commonwealth Games, it features a bladed
athlete. Representing actualisation despite adversity.
Created in alignment with the Birmingham 2022 Festival, this
Commonwealth Games sculpture features a T64 para sprinter. The piece was
designed around sprinter Ben Pearson. The two and a half metre tall original
version was installed on Birmingham New Streets Eastern Plaza on June 2022
and can still be seen at this location; it is, to the best of our knowledge,
the only piece of public art celebrating physical difference to be currently
on display within the UK.
The title hints at humanity's recent acceptance of difference.
Through this piece Chandler explored his own relationship with his hidden
disability and since its unveiling he has become an ambassador for EDS, the
syndrome which impacts his health.
This bronze replicates the larger prestigious piece capturing
the historic moment and sharing the message.