Brixham-based artist to create permanent tribute to Agatha Christie
Elisabeth Hadley was chosen to create the piece following a public vote
Last updated 28th Jan 2022
The winning artist for a new tribute to Dame Agatha Christie has been revealed following a public vote.
Local artist Elisabeth Hadley has been chosen to create and install a permanent memorial to one of Torbay’s most famous daughters.
The public vote which ran between 14 December 2021 and 16 January 2022, saw Elisabeth receive 55% of the total votes.
Elisabeth, who is a sculptor based in Brixham, will now begin to bring her proposal to life.
The new bronze tribute will show the ‘Queen of Crime’ who has many connections to Torbay, sitting on a bench, thoughtfully contemplating her next great work, or otherwise admiring the surroundings she was so passionate about.
A total of five artists were shortlisted following a public call out in September 2021.
Elisabeth said: "I am thrilled to have been chosen by the public to sculpt Dame Agatha Christie with her little dog ‘Peter’ and I am really looking forward to getting started on the sculpture.
"It is wonderful that so many people loved my design and wanted to give me their vote."
Elisabeth Hadley - Local Artist
Commissioned as part of Torbay Council’s £2.2 million Strand regeneration works after successfully securing £21.9 million from the Towns Fund to improve and enhance Torquay’s town centre.
The works which are anticipated to commence in the spring will see several improvements to the public space including minimising traffic on the Strand, increased and enhanced pedestrian areas, a new public transport hub and space for events and food festivals.
Elisabeth’s creation is due to be unveiled later in the year.