Sculptor Graham Derham updates on his Sir Daniel Gooch statue in Swindon’s GWR Park. Work progresses despite weather.
Sir Daniel Gooch is the subject of the carving, which is on an ash tree inside GWR Park. Gooch famously told Brunel to build engine works, something Swindon desperately needed.
In 1846, Gooch built a locomotive in Swindon that reached 70 miles per hour. The statue will be in the park GWR workers once used for cricket.
Derham spoke about his work on Friday, February 21, describing it as wet and windy. He noted that Gooch’s image looked tidy and the clothes and hair were progressing well.
Derham saved the face for last, recognizing it was easy to mess up. People in the park seemed curious and eager to see the finished statue, with one person saying it would be great.
The art reflects Swindon’s past and makes people feel proud, as the artist is doing a great job. A passerby admired his work, acknowledging it’s tough work in the rain.
Gooch wears a shirt, bow tie, and breeches, and he stands on a GWR podium. He holds a spanner in his right hand.
The South Swindon Parish Council manages the park, and a spokesperson talked about Derham working with parish staff at GWR Park.
Grounds staff made a route around the carving site. Councillors hope everyone likes it and that it is received like Richard Jeffries’ statue in Town Gardens.