Dudley Metropolitan Borough Council

Apollo on the move

Archived news release from 28 July 2003

Apollo on the move
The original plaster model for the bronze figure of Apollo that stands on the fountain in Dudley’s Coronation Gardens is on the move this Wednesday (30th July). The figure will travel from Himley Hall, where it has been in store for the last 15 years, to a sculptor’s studio in Claverley for some much-needed restoration.

Standing almost eight feet high, the plaster model was created in 1936 by renowned Birmingham sculptor, William Bloye, who was head of sculpture at Birmingham School of Art. The model was used to create the moulds from which the bronze figure of Apollo was cast. Lord Cobham officially unveiled the fountain in May 1939. The plaster figure was donated to Dudley Museum and Art Gallery in 1984.

Rob Bowers, who hails from Dudley and who is a tremendous enthusiast for Bloye’s work, will carry out the restoration of the crumbling plaster. The cost of the restoration has been generously sponsored by Rob’s company, Abbotsfall Studios and the transport costs have been sponsored by C’ART Fine Art Carriers and Exhibition Installers of Four Ashes, near Wolverhampton.

Rob Bowers explained:

"This is a labour of love for me. William Bloye is one of my heroes, and I am looking forward to restoring this wonderful figure to its former glory".

Roger Dodsworth, Keeper of Glass and Fine Art, said:
"Dudley Council is very grateful to Rob for giving his time to restoring the plaster model of Apollo. When he has completed the work we are looking to find the model a new home where it is safe, will be on permanent display and on view to the public."

--- Note To Editors ---
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY – Himley Hall, Wednesday 30th July 2003 at 9.30am

Release Date: 28 July 2003
Directorate: Corporate

Contact: Jan Jennings, Marketing and Communications Officer
Phone: 01384 815219
Email: jan.jennings@dudley.gov.uk
Address: Dudley MBC, Council House, Dudley, West Midlands. DY1 1HF