Dame Elisabeth Frink was a renowned British sculptor and printmaker. She was born on November 14, 1930, in Thurlow, Suffolk, England, and passed away on April 18, 1993, in Dorset, England. Frink was known for her distinctive figurative sculptures that explored themes of human and animal forms, often conveying a sense of vulnerability, strength, and aggression.
Frink studied at the Guildford School of Art and later at the Chelsea School of Art in London. She gained recognition in the 1950s and 1960s for her works that captured the spirit of post-World War II Britain. Her sculptures often depicted figures, especially birds, horses, dogs, and male heads, with an emphasis on their essential qualities and inner life.
One of Frink's most famous works is the iconic "Walking Madonna" sculpture, created in 1981, which became a symbol of peace and hope. It portrays a robed figure striding forward with a powerful and determined stance. The sculpture has been displayed in various locations around the world, including Salisbury Cathedral in England.
Throughout her career, Frink received numerous accolades for her contributions to the arts. She was elected as a Royal Academician in 1977 and was awarded a CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire) in 1969. In 1982, she was appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE), one of the highest honours bestowed by the British monarchy.
Elisabeth Frink's works can be found in many public and private collections worldwide, including the Tate Gallery in London, the Museum of Modern Art in New York, and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden in Washington, D.C. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence artists, and her sculptures remain highly sought after by collectors and art enthusiasts.