Artists stunning work revealed in first glimpse of Memorial Meadow
“Ever since Poppy, the War Horse, first graced the Parish of Sunninghill and Ascot with her presence, she has been the talk of the town and brought delight to residents and visitors alike. Obviously she also provokes thought; thought and remembrance for the bravery of all animals supporting those defending freedom and peace, especially during the First World War.”
These are the wonderful words of Allison Sharpe, Chairman of Sunninghill & Ascot Parish Council as she officially unveiled a breathtaking Meadow of Purple Poppies, created especially by talented local artist, Jenna Fox and scattered around Heatherwood Roundabout, in Ascot, home to our magnificent bronze monument.
War Horse Memorial co-founder Alan Carr with Allison Sharpe, chairman of Sunningdale and Ascot Parish Council at the unveiling of the meadow.
Jenna says she drove SIX times round the roundabout, mesmerised by Poppy’s beauty and strength. She explains: “I thought WOW, the purple was a light bolt. I had just completed a flower installation at The Sculpture Park in Guildford. My daughter was shouting at me, mum what are you doing, but I kept thinking I could make purple poppies that would sit under the horse and complement her amazing fortitude.”
The result is this magnificent installation, lovingly made over many hours, positioned at the feet of our giant bronze and to now officially unveiled by Councillor Sharpe ahead of Remembrance Sunday to remember animals of war.
She added: “This is a wonderful initiative from War Horse Memorial , hoping to raise further funds for a variety of equine and animal charities in the UK. It gives me great pleasure to see such an enterprising idea work so well, whilst helping to boost morale and lift spirits during the pandemic. Poppy has definitely established herself as a special local landmark and is beautifully enhanced by her surrounding meadow.”
Alan our co-Founder was on hand to capture the moment. He says Jenna’s work is both powerful and enigmatic and believes the people of the Royal Borough, and our army of volunteers and supporters across the UK and beyond, will see the beauty and simplicity in this extraordinary installation.
“Its already getting many wonderful comments as local people stop to admire Jenna’s wonderful work. And we are indebted as always to Councillor Sharpe who has been a great friend and supporter of War Horse Memorial from the very early days. We are so lucky to have such wonderful friends and supporters.”
Find Jenna Fox –