In September 2021 artists were invited to submit an expression of interest for a project to design a permanent tribute to Dame Agatha Christie. The tribute is being entirely funded and developed through the Towns Fund and will be installed as part of the harbour public realm project.

Five artists were shortlisted as part of the process. Each of the artists were asked to present their idea to the public in a short video. The shortlisted artists were:

• David A Annand
• Elisabeth Hadley
• Gordon Young
• Hazel Reeves
• Yorkshire Fine Arts / The Lost Foundry Devon

The public vote ran between 14 December 2021 and 16 January 2022. Local artist Elisabeth Hadley was chosen by the public to sculpt Dame Agatha Christie with her little dog ‘Peter’.

Results

Results of the vote and information on how the vote was carried out.

Funding

We have £100,000 from the Town Deal for this project.

Project benefits

Born in Torquay, Agatha Christie lived and worked here for much of her life. Torbay has marked the author’s life through:

• walking trails
• heritage plaques
• a bust near Cary Green
• Torquay being the home of the International Agatha Christie Festival

We now want to make sure that we create a more prominent and permanent reminder of the bay’s most famous daughter. Residents and visitors will enjoy and visit the artwork for generations to come.

Project timeline

Elisabeth’s creation is due to be unveiled in late 2022 / early 2023.

Organisations working on the project

• Torbay Council
• TDA
• Torquay Town Board
• Torbay Culture
• Agatha Christie Ltd
• Agatha Christie Festival Ltd

Related news

• Winning artist for new tribute to Agatha Christie revealed following public vote

• Artist shortlist for Agatha Christie artwork revealed and it’s time to vote for your favourite

• Calling all artists! We are seeking to commission a permanent artwork to celebrate the life and work of Agatha Christie