Another Place by Antony Gormley at Crosby Beach

Origins and Artistic Vision

Another Place was created by Antony Gormley, a renowned British sculptor known for exploring the human form and its relationship to space. The installation consists of 100 cast iron statues, each a life-size replica of Gormley’s own naked body, positioned along a 3-kilometer stretch of Crosby Beach on the Mersey Estuary. Installed permanently in 2005 after previous exhibitions in Germany, Norway, and Belgium, the work poetically reflects on themes of emigration, solitude, and human connection to nature. Gormley described the figures as a "poetic response to the individual and universal sentiments associated with emigration – sadness at leaving, but the hope of a new future in Another Place." The statues, known locally as "The Iron Men," stand quietly facing the sea, inviting reflection on human vulnerability and endurance.

Physical Setting and Interaction with Nature

The statues are spaced approximately 250 meters apart along the beach and extend nearly one kilometer out into the sea. Each figure stands about 189 cm tall and weighs around 650 kilograms. Their placement means they are subject to the daily ebb and flow of the tides, sometimes fully exposed on the sand, other times partially or completely submerged. This dynamic interaction with the natural environment adds a temporal dimension to the artwork, as barnacles and marine life colonize the iron surfaces over time. The changing weather, light, and sea conditions create an ever-evolving visual and sensory experience for visitors.

Local Impact and Cultural Significance

Initially controversial due to the nudity of the figures and concerns from watersports enthusiasts and conservationists, Another Place has become a beloved cultural icon in the Liverpool area. The installation has increased tourism to Crosby Beach and fostered community engagement, with locals sometimes dressing the statues for celebrations or cultural events. The artwork is permanently installed, supported by local authorities and arts organizations, and has become a symbol of the region’s creative spirit. It also serves as a contemplative space for visitors to ponder questions of identity, place, and the passage of time.

Visitor Experience and Atmosphere

Visiting Another Place offers a unique blend of art and nature. The wide sandy beach and open sky create a tranquil, contemplative atmosphere. The silent figures evoke a sense of stillness and anticipation as they gaze toward the horizon. The experience varies dramatically with the tides and weather—sunrises and sunsets cast dramatic light, while mist or stormy skies add a haunting quality. Visitors can walk among the statues, observing details up close, and enjoy the natural sounds of the sea and wildlife. The installation is accessible year-round, but tide times should be checked for safe exploration.

Preservation and Community Involvement

The installation is maintained with respect for its environmental setting, balancing public access with conservation. Local organizations and authorities encourage visitors to respect the statues and beach environment by not climbing on the figures and by taking care not to leave litter. The artwork’s permanence is supported by ongoing community and institutional commitment, ensuring that Another Place remains a vital part of Crosby’s cultural landscape for years to come.

Antony Gormley’s Legacy and Broader Work

Antony Gormley is a celebrated contemporary artist whose works often explore the human body in relation to space and environment. Another Place is among his most famous public installations, alongside works like Angel of the North. Gormley’s approach invites viewers to consider their own place in the world through the silent presence of his cast figures. His works have been exhibited worldwide, and he has received numerous honors including the Turner Prize and membership in the Royal Academy of Arts.