A survivor of breast cancer has been reunited with her statue that was originally revealed at Brixton station in London 35 years ago. Joy Battick, who was 26 years old at the time, is portrayed in what is believed to be one of the earliest depictions of black individuals in England.
After locating Joy decades later, artist Kevin Atherton crafted a new life-size bronze figure of her, now aged 62. The statue was unveiled on Wednesday at Brixton station following Southeastern railway’s decision to restore the three original statues. Joy’s statue now proudly stands opposite the original one, with all four statues symbolizing the true essence of Brixton and its residents.
Expressing her emotions, Joy stated, “I’m deeply moved and overwhelmed by today’s achievement. People didn’t react as they do today back then.” She highlighted the changes in Brixton over the years and emphasized the importance of acknowledging and preserving the community’s presence.
The statues, known as Platforms Piece, were part of a £1 million improvement project by British Rail in the 1980s. They were recently restored after being taken down in 2016 due to weathering. Joy, who battled cancer in 2018, shared her gratitude for the opportunity to revisit her statue, reflecting on her journey of recovery and resilience.
Artist Kevin Atherton described the emotional journey of reconnecting with Joy after many years. The statues, including Joy II, were displayed at the station alongside local dignitaries, representing a tribute to the cultural identity of Brixton.
Joy’s statue holds personal significance for her, reflecting her life experiences and growth since its original creation. She hopes the statue will resonate with the people of Brixton, acknowledging the area’s history and significance.
The statues at Brixton station symbolize the community’s identity and history, with each figure representing individuals with ties to the area. Joy’s connection to Brixton remains strong, as she recalls her past experiences and looks forward to potentially returning to her beloved neighborhood.
The Brixton riots of 1981, a pivotal moment in the area’s history, influenced Joy and the creation of her statue. Recognized for its historical significance, Joy’s statue stands as a representation of British black individuals in public art, commemorating the community’s resilience and heritage.