Thomas J Price’s ‘A Place Beyond’ Towers Over New V&A East

Thomas J Price, renowned for his contemporary statuary, has unveiled his latest monumental work, “A Place Beyond,” outside the V&A East museum in Stratford. This impressive 18-foot sculpture, Price's tallest to date, features a fictionalized young person in casual attire, holding a phone. It embodies his signature ‘everyperson' style, continuing themes explored in his earlier acclaimed work, “Reaching Out,” which commented on our relationship with technology and the marginalisation of Black women.

“A Place Beyond” serves as a powerful statement of inclusivity and modern identity, aligning with V&A East Director Gus Casely-Hayford's vision for the museum to be accessible “for everyone.” The figure, described as “looking out to a horizon full of possibilities,” invites reflection on contemporary life and future prospects. The primary benefit of this prominent installation is its role in generating significant public interest and anticipation for the V&A East museum, which is scheduled to open on April 18th with exhibitions like the free “Why We Make Galleries” and the paid “The Music is Black: A British Story.”

Beyond its artistic and symbolic value, the sculpture is expected to become a popular landmark and meeting point in the area, similar to the critically acclaimed V&A East Storehouse that opened nearby last year. The article does not mention any specific risks associated with the sculpture itself, focusing instead on its positive contributions to public engagement and the cultural landscape. Price's work continues to offer insightful commentary on modern existence, making “A Place Beyond” a compelling and fitting gateway to London's newest V&A institution.

(Source: https://londonist.com/london/art-and-photography/a-place-beyond-statue-thomas-j-price-v-a)