Frank Dobson Square

Frank Dobson Square

Frank Dobson Square is a public space located in Whitechapel, within the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Established in 1963, the square was named in honor of Frank Owen Dobson, a prominent British artist and sculptor born in Clerkenwell. The square was constructed by the London County Council at the junction of Cambridge Heath Road and Cephas Street, the same year Dobson passed away. (en.wikipedia.org)

The centerpiece of the square was Dobson's 'Woman and Fish' fountain, a sculpture he designed and completed in 1951. This artwork was purchased by the London County Council in 1963 and installed in the square to commemorate Dobson's contributions to British art. (en.wikipedia.org)

Over the years, the 'Woman and Fish' sculpture faced multiple acts of vandalism. In 1977, it was severely damaged, leading to its temporary removal for restoration. Further incidents in 1983 and 2002 resulted in additional damage, and by 2002, the sculpture was deemed beyond repair and removed from the square. Consequently, the square remained without its central artwork, leaving an empty plinth at its heart. (en.wikipedia.org)

In 2006, artist Antonio López Reche was commissioned by Tower Hamlets Council to create a bronze replica of the 'Woman and Fish' sculpture. This reproduction was cast in bronze and installed in Millwall Park on the Isle of Dogs in 2007, rather than returning to its original location in Whitechapel. (en.wikipedia.org)

In 2017, local residents initiated the 'Bring Back Our Statue' campaign, advocating for the return of Dobson's sculpture to its original site in Frank Dobson Square. After years of campaigning, Tower Hamlets Council confirmed plans to refurbish the square and replace the statue as part of the local infrastructure plan. However, in July 2023, the council canceled these plans, leaving the square's plinth still empty and the community's efforts unfulfilled. (bethnalgreenlondon.co.uk)

Despite these challenges, the campaigners remain determined to restore the statue to its rightful place, believing that its presence would enhance the local environment and honor the legacy of Frank Dobson. The ongoing efforts highlight the community's commitment to preserving and celebrating public art in the area.