Milton Keynes statue honours founder of Open University
It's made of fibreglass to give people the chance to see what the final bronze artwork will look
A statue has been unveiled in Milton Keynes to honour late politician Jennie Lee, the founder of the Open University.
The fibreglass model, created by artist Andy Edwards, has been placed at Station Square to give people the chance to see what the final bronze artwork will look like when it is installed later in the year.
Edwards has previously sculpted statues of The Beatles, Bob Marley and Sir Alex Ferguson.
He will use feedback from the local community to decided where the final statue should rest.
The artwork honours Jennie Lee, well-known for starting The Open University and her commitment to arts and public service.
Born in 1904 in Fife, Scotland, Jennie Lee became one of the first women MPs in the House of Commons in 1929. Her influential career led her to become Minister for the Arts in 1964.
She laid the groundwork for The Open University in 1966 with the first students beginning their studies in 1971.
Leader of Milton Keynes City Council, Cllr Pete Marland said:
“It’s a real privilege to share this first look at the Jennie Lee statue. Jennie was a remarkable woman whose work changed education in this country forever, yet she has never had the recognition she truly deserves.
"Too often her achievements have been overlooked. Having a major artwork in Milton Keynes that celebrates her role in creating The Open University feels exactly right. I’m looking forward to seeing the final sculpture capture both her strength and her spirit.”
Vice-Chancellor of The Open University, Professor Dave Phoenix said:
“Jennie’s pioneering spirit and determination was the driving force behind the establishment of The Open University, and it is hugely fitting that she will be commemorated in this way in this, in this the 60th anniversary year of her ground-breaking White Paper.
“This statue will give visibility to Jennie’s achievements and her association with the OU and its home here in Milton Keynes.
“The statue will be a great addition to how our institution continues to mark the 60th anniversary of Jennie’s legacy. We look forward to seeing the final artwork.”