Statue of Light and Life atop 95 Morrison Street, Glasgow

A Beacon Over Glasgow’s Skyline

The Statue of Light and Life crowns the central dome of 95 Morrison Street, standing approximately 150 feet above the ground. This towering figure has long served as a symbolic guide for the city, often referred to as "The Guiding Light of the West." The statue’s elevated position offers panoramic views stretching from the Cathkin Braes to the Campsie Fells, overseeing the bustling cityscape below. Its torch, originally made of copper, embodies illumination and life, themes central to Glasgow’s industrial and cultural heritage.

Origins and Artistic Heritage

The original statue was the work of sculptor Ewing, who envisioned a concrete figure representing "Light and Life" with a torch held aloft. It was an iconic feature of the building for nearly a century, visible to millions passing through the city’s streets and along the River Clyde. The statue was part of a broader architectural narrative, echoing motifs found in other Glasgow landmarks such as the City Chambers. Despite suffering damage in a 1911 fire and later deterioration, the statue’s symbolic significance endured.

Removal and Loss of the Original

By the mid-1990s, structural inspections revealed that the original statue was crumbling and unsafe. It was removed between 1994 and 1996, leaving only its supporting spike secured inside the dome. Attempts to preserve or replicate the statue with fiberglass were considered but never realized. The original statue’s fate remains uncertain; it likely disintegrated over time, with no surviving close-up photographs or physical remnants found within the building.

Rebirth Through Restoration

In 2016, after extensive refurbishment of 95 Morrison Street, a new statue was commissioned to restore this emblematic figure to its rightful place. Sculpted by Kenny Mackay, the replacement closely follows the original design and stands 12 feet tall, excluding the outstretched arm. It is clad in 23-carat gold leaf, enhancing its visibility and grandeur. The statue is illuminated from below by LED lighting, ensuring it remains a luminous presence on Glasgow’s skyline by day and night.

Symbolism and Cultural Resonance

The Statue of Light and Life symbolizes Glasgow’s spirit of resilience, industry, and hope. Its torch evokes guidance and enlightenment, serving as a metaphor for the city’s role as a beacon in the west of Scotland. Positioned above a building historically linked to commerce and community, the statue connects Glasgow’s past with its present aspirations. It stands not only as an architectural feature but as a cultural icon that continues to inspire.

Architectural and Urban Context

Situated in the G5 district, the statue is part of a historically significant building whose restoration has revitalized this area of Glasgow. The dome and statue together create a distinctive silhouette on the city skyline, contributing to Glasgow’s rich architectural tapestry. The statue’s presence enhances the building’s landmark status, making it a point of interest for those exploring Glasgow’s urban heritage and public art.