Two striking new sculptures unveiled at The Brentford Project

Two captivating new public sculptures have been unveiled at The Brentford Project, the landmark regeneration scheme by Ballymore in Brentford town centre. 

The artworks, created by internationally acclaimed artist Colin Spofforth, were revealed at a special event attended by Sean Mulryan, Chairman and Group Chief Executive of Ballymore, Councillor Tom Bruce, Deputy Leader of Hounslow Council, and the artist himself.

Located on either side of Workhouse Dock, the sculptures – titled Guest of a Lady and The Mirror Man - mark a major milestone in Ballymore’s vision to integrate art, history, and community into the very fabric of Brentford’s evolving identity, as the ongoing regeneration continues at pace. 

Guest of a Lady

This evocative bronze sculpture features a seated female figure in period attire, inspired by Brentford’s industrious nineteenth-century past. Positioned to invite interaction, the figure gazes out across the landscape, evoking an era when the Grand Union Canal and the Great Western Railway brought prosperity and bustling activity to the town. Her open posture encourages viewers to sit beside her, reflect, and immerse themselves in the narrative of Brentford’s heritage.

The Mirror Man

Boldly interactive and thought-provoking, The Mirror Man explores themes of self-perception and reflection. Cast in bronze, the sculpture features a man in work clothes, leaning against a towering, Victorian-industrial-style stainless steel mirror. Transfixed by his own reflection, he sticks out his tongue—an act of defiance against perceived imperfections. The convex mirror surface distorts his image, making it appear to float, while the reverse side features two more mirrors—one concave and one convex—producing a kaleidoscope of conflicting reflections. Upside-down images and fisheye distortions challenge viewers to consider how they see themselves and how others perceive them. 

Sean Mulryan, Chairman and Group Chief Executive of Ballymore, said: "At Ballymore we have always believed that art has the power to transform a space into a magical place. These sculptures provide two new cultural points of interest for the public to engage with and enjoy. Importantly, they take inspiration from Brentford’s past, ensuring that this spirit is continued as part of our ongoing regeneration of The Brentford Project.”

Colin Spofforth added: “Public art has the power to spark conversation, inspire imagination, and change the way people see their surroundings. Both pieces are deeply rooted in Brentford’s character—past, present, and future. I hope they prompt people to stop, think, and smile.”

Councillor Tom Bruce, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Development at Hounslow Council, commented: “At Hounslow Council, we believe in creating meaningful places—not just buildings—and the unveiling of these beautiful sculptures show that Ballymore and the Brentford Project share in that vision. These works of art speak to Brentford’s rich history and heritage, while affirming that creativity, art, culture and community have a strong role to play in its future. I hope they will provide inspiration and enjoyment for many years to come.”

The Brentford Project is a transformative waterfront regeneration scheme delivering new homes, independent retailers, vibrant public spaces and community-driven cultural events, breathing new life into the town.