Detail of the Thomas Holcroft artwork at the estate in Fitzrovia: and he is celebrated on it as ‘dramatist, novelist, miscellanist, poet’

A 10-YEAR project to create two sculptures of social reformers in a housing estate was completed this week after images of Thomas Holcroft and his daughter Fanny were unveiled.

The one-metre bronze reliefs in Holcroft Court, Fitzrovia, have been created by artist Denise Julien and sculptor Ron Mole.

The Lord Mayor of Westminster Paul Dimoldenberg attended the grand unveiling on Tuesday.
Ms Julien said: “Ten years ago – I had the idea – I’m glad that it didn’t happen then, because I didn’t know of his daughter, Fanny Holcroft. It’s through the research that I found out about her. Two pieces of art, instead of one.

“The journey was long. I threw in the towel several times, because it was hard, then I picked it up again, thinking ‘I’ll try this angle, I’ll try that angle’. Eventually I got there.”

Thomas (1745-1809) was a dramatist, novelist, journalist, and social reformer.

Joining the celebrations: Jessica de Giudici, above, and, below, Durassie Kiangangu

In his youth, he worked as a stable boy, cobbler and teacher before he was able to make his living in the creative spheres.

During the course of his life, he became known for his strong anti-aristocratic sentiments and his support for Thomas Paine in helping him publish the first part of Rights of Man in 1791.

Fanny (1780-1844) was a novelist and dramatist and, like her father, she held progressive views, writing anti-slavery poetry.

She was also a talented translator and social advocate.

Ms Julien said the fundraising for the project came through resident donations, the Fitzrovia West Neighbourhood Forum, and the city council’s CIL, community infrastructure levy.

At the event there were also performances by the Valentino Jazz Band and singer Jessica de Giudici, a solo dance by actor and performer Durassie Kiangangu, and a performance by singer Lewis with his Rat Pack tribute. Actor Nick Moran also made a special appearance and sang for the crowd.

Mayor Dimoldenberg said of the Thomas piece: “The artwork that we… unveil here today… does more than just honour the name of a residential block. It invites us to remember his life and his work, and reflect on the values he stood for, creativity, resilience, and the courage to fight for a better, fairer, society.”