How to visit Devon’s most controversial statue

Is this the most controversial statue in the South West? Most likely!

Ilfracombe’s Verity by Damien Hirst is certainly a talking point in the town. Here’s everything you should know about the arresting sculpture. 

What is Verity?

Statue in Ilfracombe, North Devon

At the entrance to Ilfracombe Harbour, a towering bronze figure faces out to sea, sword raised high. 

Verity, created by Damien Hirst, dominates the waterfront – standing 20.25 metres tall on a stone plinth. 

The statue was installed in 2012 and has become one of Ilfracombe’s most recognisable features – she’s definitely a talking point!

With one half of her body stripped back to reveal muscle, bone and an unborn child, Verity is not a typical seaside monument. She is unsettling, bold, and deeply symbolic.

Who is the artist?

One of Britain’s most famous contemporary artists, Damien Hirst rose to prominence in the 1990s as part of the Young British Artists movement – he became known for provocative works such as preserved animals in formaldehyde and diamond-encrusted skulls. 

Themes of life, death, and anatomy run throughout his work, making Verity a natural extension of his artistic vision.

For several years, Hirst lived in Ilfracombe – he ran a restaurant in town. 

Although his restaurant, The Quay, has since closed, Verity remains as his most lasting contribution to the town.

Why was Verity built?

Statue of Verity in Ilfracombe

The sculpture follows a long artistic tradition of depicting justice, drawing inspiration from the allegorical figures seen in courthouses and classical sculpture. 

The sword and scales reinforce this, while the plinth beneath her feet features legal texts, referencing British law. 

Yet Verity also reflects Hirst’s fascination with anatomy and mortality – which are themes he has explored throughout his career. 

Despite its size and weight (Verity is made of bronze and stainless steel and weighs over 25 tonnes) the sculpture appears dynamic, as if braced against the wind coming off the Bristol Channel. 

Her forward-facing stance suggests resilience, a theme Hirst has linked to truth and justice. 

The impact on Ilfracombe

Since its installation in 2012 (it was originally only supposed to be a temporary sculpture), Verity has changed the visual and cultural landscape of Ilfracombe. 

The sculpture has drawn visitors to the town, with people travelling specifically to see it. 

This means that local businesses have benefited from the increased footfall – with cafés, restaurants, and shops along the harbour seeing more trade. 

Some argue that Verity has helped put Ilfracombe on the map as a destination for contemporary art, alongside its traditional seaside attractions.

But reactions from residents have been mixed. 

Some see the statue as a valuable addition to the town, a bold work that attracts interest and conversation. 

Others view it as out of place, too large, too grotesque, or simply unnecessary. 

Visiting Verity

Statue of Verity in ilfracombe from the water

Verity stands at the far end of Ilfracombe Harbour, positioned on a stone plinth overlooking the Bristol Channel. The statue is freely accessible at all times, making it easy to visit whether you’re exploring the harbour or passing through the town. 

The best way to approach Verity is by walking along the harbourfront, where the statue gradually comes into view, its scale becoming more apparent the closer you get.

Despite the initial controversy, Verity has remained in place for over a decade, gradually becoming part of Ilfracombe’s identity. 

While opinions remain divided, there is no denying the impact the statue has had in shaping perceptions of the town.

See all of the best things to do in Ilfracombe here.

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