Known as the ‘Platforms Piece’ the three sculptures of local residents by artist Kevin Atherton were first placed in Brixton railway station in 1986.
Atherton wanted his three figures to emphasise the passing of trains at the station through their positioning, and to represent the real inhabitants of Brixton. He therefore chose models who had personal connections to the area: Peter Lloyd, Karin Heistermann and Joy Battick.
The statues were given listed status in 2016 by Historic England due to their cultural significance, and in 2023 following their restoration, the three original statues (Joy, Karin and Peter) plus a new sculpture of ‘Joy’ were positioned back onto the platforms.
Part of the restoration project carried out by the South East Alliance (Southeastern and Network Rail) was funded by the Railway Heritage Trust (RHT) and it was their plaque that was unveiled at the station today by the Mayor of Lambeth, Cllr Adrian Garden and the Trust Chairman, Andy Savage.
The original artist, Kevin and two of the sculpture subjects who still live in south London – Joy and Karin - also attended the ceremony, along with representatives of the RHT and the South East Alliance. Including members of the Southeastern colleague group CultuRail, who promote a culturally diverse workforce, which fosters respect and dignity, challenges racial discrimination and champions equality.
Original Artist, Kevin Atherton, said:
“Platforms Piece is essentially about waiting and the idea that three people in 1986 would become united in this way while waiting for a train is remarkable. I’m very proud that the sculptures mean something to the local community and it was an absolute pleasure to be able to celebrate this unique piece of railway heritage again today with Joy and Karin.”
Peter Stapleton, Southeastern’s Head of Facilities, said on behalf of the Alliance:
“We are very proud to support the communities we serve, and the Brixton sculptures are some of the most iconic artworks on our network. They have delighted our customers for many years, and following the restoration, they will be able to delight future generations too. It was a real honour to unveil this plaque on World Cultural Diversity Day to celebrate this fantastic piece of Brixton heritage.”
Tim Hedley-Jones, Railway Heritage Trust Executive Director, said:
“We were delighted to help Southeastern fund the restoration of these unique Grade II listed statues at Brixton station in 2023, and we are equally pleased to have organised for a special plaque to celebrate them, which has been unveiled today in the presence of our Chair, Andy Savage and other members of the railway and local community of Brixton. They are a unique part of railway and local history and deserve to be celebrated and commemorated accordingly.”
