Behold, the Gorilla sculpture! It is a powerful tribute to Guy the Gorilla. This sculpture stands as a testament to art’s ability to capture the essence of a beloved creature.
The Gorilla sculpture you see before you is the work of David Wynne. Wynne completed it in 1961. It was installed here in Crystal Palace Park in 1962. The sculpture is made of polished black Belgian marble. It stands 1.2 meters high on a marble base.
Guy the Gorilla was a resident of the London Zoo. He arrived in 1947. Guy quickly became a major attraction. People loved his gentle nature. He was born in 1946 in French Cameroon. The zoo named him Guy because he arrived on Guy Fawkes Day.
David Wynne was commissioned to create a large animal sculpture. London County Council’s Patronage of the Arts Scheme funded it. Wynne chose Guy the Gorilla as his subject. He had studied zoology. The artist wanted to convey awe and terror and love for this mighty beast.
Wynne spent considerable time at the London Zoo. He sketched and observed Guy. It took nine months to complete the sculpture. The Gorilla sculpture helped launch Wynne’s career.
The sculpture shows Guy resting on all fours. Children often climb on it. Wynne intended for the sculpture to be interactive. The word “GORILLA” is carved into the plinth.
The Gorilla sculpture is a Grade II listed structure. This recognizes its special architectural and historic interest. Crystal Palace Park is also listed. The Crystal Palace Dinosaurs have a Grade I listing.
Guy the Gorilla died in 1978. He suffered a heart attack during a dental operation. His taxidermied remains are in the Natural History Museum. Another bronze statue of Guy is at the London Zoo. William Timym created it. It was installed in 1982.
David Wynne died in 2014. He created many animal sculptures. He also sculpted portraits of Thomas Beecham, John Gielgud, and The Beatles.
The Gorilla sculpture stands near the Lower Lake in Crystal Palace Park. It is close to the park cafe. The Crystal Palace Dinosaurs are on an island in the lake.
This sculpture represents a significant piece of public art. It reflects the artistic trends of the post-war period. The London County Council commissioned it as part of an effort to enhance the cultural environment.
Take a moment to appreciate the Gorilla sculpture. It is a reminder of Guy the Gorilla’s legacy. It embodies David Wynne’s artistic vision. It connects us to both art and nature. It is a beloved landmark in Crystal Palace Park.