'Lady of Shalott' - Timothy Schmaltz's statue at Dimbola - Plan Research

Timothy Schmalz’s Lady of Shalott sculpture eyes Dimbola as its future home

A bronze sculpture based on Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s Lady of Shalott poem, created by an internationally renowned artist, could be soon be showcased on the Isle of Wight.

One of Timothy Schmalz’s latest creations could go on display at Dimbola Museum and Galleries in Freshwater, showcasing a life-sized effigy of Lady Shallot lying down in a boat.

Desire to display on a site associated with Lord Tennyson
Mr Schmalz, a Canadian sculptor who mainly creates religious statues and displays his work worldwide, approached Freshwater Parish Council about displaying his artwork, preferably on a site associated with Lord Tennyson.

Dimbola was owned by Tennyson’s friend and work partner, Julia Margaret Cameron, and Tennyson lived at the neighbouring Farringford Estate.

Consent required
Dimbola has agreed to install the artwork permanently on its land next to its museum and art gallery, near Gate Lane and the attraction’s Jimi Hendrix statue.

As Dimbola is a Grade II listed building, consent is needed to install the statue, and make changes to the surrounding area, from the Isle of Wight council.

Parish council plans
Freshwater Parish Council has submitted the application to the council, also proposing to make the site of the Lady of Shalott statue more accessible.

Visitors can currently only reach the side garden via steps, but a stone path could be installed, along with a pergola and planting.

View the plans
You can view the plans, 23/01501/FUL, on the Isle of Wight Council’s planning register.

The public consultation runs until 3rd November.


This article is from the BBC’s LDRS (Local Democracy Reporter Service) scheme, which News OnTheWight is taking part in. Some alterations and additions may have been made by OnTheWight. Ed