The sculpture, installed in Bournemouth and dedicated to Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, stands at Alum Chine as part of BCP Council’s Coastal Art Trail funded by the UK Government.
Best known for literary classics including Treasure Island and The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Stevenson lived in nearby Westbourne from 1884 to 1887.
Councillor Andy Martin, portfolio holder for customer, communications, and culture at BCP Council, said: “This project is a fantastic addition to BCP’s Coastal Art Trail and a celebration of Bournemouth’s rich literary heritage.
“The new sculpture not only honours Robert Louis Stevenson’s time in our area but also creates an inspiring cultural landmark for residents and visitors alike.
“By connecting art, history, and the natural beauty of our coastline, we are encouraging more people to explore our unique culture and heritage in an accessible and engaging way.”
Stevenson moved to Bournemouth with his wife, Fanny, in search of the health benefits of the coastal climate.
They settled in a house named Skerryvore after the Scottish lighthouse designed by Stevenson’s uncle.
During his time in Westbourne, Stevenson wrote some of his most celebrated works, including Kidnapped, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, and A Child’s Garden of Verses.
The newly installed sculpture draws on themes and imagery from Stevenson’s writing, incorporating contributions from the community, including pupils from St Michael’s C of E Primary School.
Artist Tim Ward of Circling the Square said: “I am proud to have been commissioned by BCP Council to design and create the Robert Louis Stevenson sculpture for Alum Chine in Bournemouth.
“I thank the council officers and all those involved for their partnership working in the design of the sculptures, including St Michael’s Primary School and the Friends of Skerryvore, from developing the original concept to the final form for the artwork.”
The Revd Christopher Colledge MBE, who founded the Friends of Skerryvore, said: “The design of the sculpture depicting the dark and light side of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde captivates the true significance of this most remarkable author.
“The sculpture will highlight the tremendous historical heritage that Robert Louis Stevenson brought to Bournemouth and it will be recognised not only locally but throughout the world.”
Skerryvore House no longer stands, but its site remains accessible to the public as memorial gardens, which feature the house’s original layout and a sculpture of the Skerryvore lighthouse.