Written for Newham Voices

Published on 29th March 2024

Last year the University of East London (UEL) celebrated 125 years since its opening in 1898, under the name West Ham Technical Institute.

 

The educational building underwent several name changes, then in 1992 officially gained university status. To commemorate the milestone anniversary, a competition was launched by the UEL Executive Board, for students in the Architecture and Visual Arts department. The challenge was to create a new sculpture that would overlook the Docklands campus and reflect the university's proud values, strong history, and exciting future.

 

The winning piece of art entitled; Timeless Flight was officially unveiled on 29 February 2024 with much celebration. The event saw the ribbon cut by the Chair of the Board of Governors John Gardard, as part of the After Dark Festival. Although the night was cold, dark, and wet, people's spirits were high.

 

The winning design took inspiration from the university's coat of arms, which displays the Phoenix, an immortal bird that regenerates out of the ashes of its predecessor to keep moving forward. The perfect symbol to highlight the ongoing growth of the University of East London, known when it opened as 'The Peoples University' due to its belief that education is for everyone. A belief that remains today.

 

The winning design was created by students; Stephanie Stocks, Md Tanjir Chowdhury, Ayodele Victor and Rafael Ives Ribeiro. The team were supported by mentorship from tutors.