Introduction to the Wooden Woman Sculpture
With her hair styled in a high bun and one arm extended in a welcoming gesture, the life-size wooden woman bears a notable resemblance to a young Barbara Windsor, the Carry On actress who later became famous as Peggy Mitchell, the landlady in Eastenders.
However, this wooden figure is not intended to stand behind the bar of the Queen Vic pub. Instead, it will be seated on a picnic bench located in the remote hills of Galloway.
The sculpture is scheduled to be unveiled in a brief ceremony on Waterside Hill on 31 May. Prior to this event, the figure will travel to several nearby locations, seated on a replica bench.
Purpose and Artistic Vision
Sculptor Robert Lawrence expressed his hope that the figure would inspire visitors to appreciate the scenic views and reflect on the history of the Glenkens area.
McNabb Laurie, manager of Dumfries and Galloway Woodlands, commented on the impact of the sculpture, stating:
"It is simply impossible to be next to this figure and for it not to provoke discussion."
The sculpture is part of the Woodlands Plus project, which aims to explore ways to enhance social, economic, and ecological benefits in the region.
As part of this initiative, new interpretation boards were installed on Waterside Hill last year to share the area's history, and a new picnic bench was placed near the summit. The life-sized wooden figure has been crafted specifically to sit on this bench.
Identity and Community Engagement
Laurie acknowledged that the most common question from visitors is about the identity of the woman depicted by the sculpture. However, the intention was to leave her identity open to interpretation.
"She is supposed to be generally representative of a woman, allowing everyone to engage and create their own stories,"he explained.
"I have had numerous questions about what she is called and I suppose again, we are trying to purposefully not name her so people feel they have the 'creative space' to engage as they see fit."
During its tour, several stops will be accompanied by local storyteller Anne Errington, who will encourage visitors to connect with the heritage of the area.
Laurie further described the sculpture as:
"part-artistic installation and part heritage engagement opportunity – has been lovingly created to form a feature of anyone's walk along the Southern Upland Way.
The tour of the Glenkens in May is only possible thanks to the support from a wide range of partners, thank you to all involved.
If you see her out on her travels, please do say hello."
Context of Female Statues in Scotland
The sculptor also discussed the broader context of female representation in public statues across Scotland. He noted that there are very few statues depicting female figures in public spaces.
He stated:
"In Scotland there are only a small number of public statues depicting female figures.
If you take Queen Victoria out of the equation a handful of examples remain.
Even fewer from modern times."
Lawrence described it as a privilege to receive a community-led brief to create "an appropriate female image" and "an image for all women." He posed the question:
"Have I achieved it? I'll leave you to decide."
