A survivor of breast cancer has been reunited with her statue, which originally debuted at Brixton station in London 35 years ago. Joy Battick, then 26, is portrayed in what is thought to be one of the earliest artworks featuring black individuals in England.
Renowned artist Kevin Atherton, after locating Joy many years later, sculpted a second life-sized bronze figure of her, now aged 62. The unveiling took place at Brixton station on Wednesday following Southeastern railway’s decision to restore the three original statues. Joy’s statue now proudly stands opposite the original one on the platform.
The four statues, including Joy’s figure known as Joy II, now collectively represent the authentic identity of Brixton’s residents. Joy expressed her emotions, stating that the restoration was overwhelming and that the changes in Brixton must be acknowledged while ensuring the community’s presence is recognized.
The artworks, known as Platforms Piece, were originally commissioned by British Rail in the 1980s but had deteriorated over time, prompting their removal for restoration in 2016. Joy revealed that she battled cancer in 2018, making the reunion with her statue even more meaningful.
Kevin Atherton emphasized the significance of Joy’s statue in symbolizing Brixton’s essence over the years. He highlighted the evolution of time and experience reflected in the statue’s transformation from a young woman to a mature individual.
Joy expressed her desire for the Brixton community to appreciate her statue, reflecting on her personal growth and experiences since the original unveiling. She reminisced about her connection to Brixton, particularly during the historic Brixton riots, underscoring the statue’s relevance to the community.
The statues, representing local residents like Peter Lloyd, Karin Heisterman, and Joy Battick, aim to embody the cultural identity of Brixton. Despite no longer residing in the area, Joy maintains a strong connection to Brixton and hopes to return to her roots.
The original statues, crafted through traditional methods, contrast with Joy II, which incorporated modern 3D scanning and printing techniques. Weighing approximately 200kg each, the statues now grace Brixton station, serving as a tribute to the community’s heritage and spirit.
