Bournemouth’s literary heritage to be commemorated in a new sculpture celebrating the life and works of Robert Louis Stevenson

A new sculpture to celebrate Robert Louis Stevenson and his link to Westbourne has been installed in Alum Chine, Bournemouth.

Writer Robert Louis Stevenson, best known for his works Treasure Island and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, moved to Bournemouth with his wife Franny in the late 1800s for the health benefits of the coastal air.  

To link the historic site and this exciting new sculpture, visitors are invited to walk in the footsteps of Robert Louis Stevenson and find the ‘lost pages’ of his works, which have been placed on stone markers in the historic Alum Chine. 

The Stevensons lived in Westbourne from 1884 in a house they named ‘Skerryvore’ after a lighthouse built by Stevenson’s uncle in Scotland. In the three years that he spent in Westbourne, Stevenson kept busy writing some of his most acclaimed work, including Kidnapped and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, as well as A Child's Garden of Verses. It is this literary legacy and the man behind the words that will be commemorated in a new sculpture by Circling the Square.  

The sculpture will depict the renowned writer, capturing elements of his work and literary themes through the materials and details of the artwork. Imagery and quotes of his literary works will be depicted within the sculpture, inspired by engagement with the local community and children of St Michael's C Of E Primary School.  

Cllr Andy Martin, Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communications and Culture, said: “This project is a fantastic addition to BCP’s Coastal Art Trail and a celebration of Bournemouth’s rich literary heritage.  

“The new sculpture not only honours Robert Louis Stevenson’s time in our area, but also creates an inspiring cultural landmark for residents and visitors alike. By connecting art, history and the natural beauty of our coastline, we are encouraging more people to explore our unique culture and heritage in an accessible and engaging way.  

“I’d also like to thank the artist Tim Ward, the children and staff of St Michael’s Church of England Primary School and the Friends of Skerryvore, whose involvement has helped shape this meaningful and community-driven piece of work.” 

Artist Tim Ward of Circling the Square, said: “I am proud to have been commissioned by BCP Council to design and create the Robert Louis Stevenson Sculpture for Alum Chine in Bournemouth. 

“I thank the Council Officers and all those involved for their partnership working in the design of the sculptures, including St Michael’s Primary School and the Friends of Skerryvore, from developing the original concept to the final form for the artwork.  

The Robert Louis Stevenson Sculpture along with the new landscaping will, I am sure, provide inspiration for people visiting the Alum Chine and become a positive landmark for Bournemouth.” 

The Revd Christopher Colledge MBE, who formed the Friends of Skerryvore eight years ago, commented: “The design of the sculpture depicting the dark and light side of Dr. Jeckle and Mr. Hyde captivates the true significance of this most remarkable author. The sculpture will highlight the tremendous historical heritage that Robert Louis Stevenson brought to Bournemouth and it will be recognised not only locally but throughout the world.  

“The Friends of Skerryvore, who care for the site of the Stevensons’ former home, were pleased to meet the artist and they together with the whole community look forward to when the sculpture is in place as it will be a cultural landmark and generate interest nationally.” 

While the Skerryvore House no longer stands, the site can be visited today as memorial gardens which include the layout of the Stevenson’s home and a sculpture of the Skerryvore Lighthouse. These gardens are maintained by the voluntary group Friends of Skerryvore and are free for the public to enjoy.  

Skerryvore Gardens are a short walk away from the heart of Westbourne, home to bustling cafés and local bookshops, and a 20-minute walk through the iconic Alum Chine to the sculpture and scenic beach.  

This project is fully funded through a UK Government grant. This artwork is part of BCP’s Coastal Art Trail and aims to encourage visitors to explore more of the coast and its heritage sites, providing free opportunities to access art and culture in the BCP area. Thank you to the children & staff of St Michael's Church of England Primary School and the Friends of Skerryvore for their involvement and support of this artwork. 

Information about BCP’s Coastal Public Art Trail and BCP’s Writers’ Trail, showcasing other renowned writers and their link to the Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch area, can be found on the Explore BCP website: www.explorebcp.co.uk/