This spring, Tschabalala Self’s first public sculpture, Seated, travels to the De La Warr Pavilion (DLWP) from April 19 to October 29, in Bexhill-on-Sea, UK.

Standing three metres-high and made from patinated bronze, Self’s monumental work uses the everyday object of a seat as an entry point for questions of permission and performance within public space. Its subject – poised, immaculately dressed, glancing to her left – emboldens onlookers to sit with confidence and comfort. 

Presented on the lawn of the De La Warr Pavilion and facing outwards onto the ocean, Seated and its new siting will evoke the acts of resting, reflection and leisure that are part of DLWP’s distinctive coastal context. 

Commissioned by Avant Arte as part of its inaugural public art programme, the monumental seated female figure in bronze brings transcendence to the everyday.

“This figure represents all individuals, but women in particular, who understand the power and importance of simple gestures that assert their right to take up space.”  –Tschabalala Self