Whetstone Artist Frances Segelman's Royal Sculptures at Buckingham Palace
The East London artist, who previously lived in Whetstone, spoke about her experiences sculpting the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.
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Frances Segelman, an East London artist known for sculpting prominent figures, has created works of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, which are displayed at Buckingham Palace. Segelman, who previously lived in Whetstone, shared her experiences of working with the Royal Family.
Nervous Sittings with Royalty
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Segelman recounted feeling significant nervousness during her sittings with Queen Elizabeth II. She described her hands shaking while using a calliper to measure the Queen's face. Segelman stated that the Queen was 'lovely' and 'unbelievable' and expressed her delight upon seeing the finished sculpture.
She also detailed sculpting Prince Philip for the 50th anniversary of London Youth, an initiative supported by her late husband, philanthropist Sir Jack Petchey. Segelman mentioned the need to learn appropriate etiquette for her four sittings with the Duke of Edinburgh, whom she found to be 'lovely'.
Inspiration and Artistic Journey
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Segelman, who describes herself as a self-taught artist, found her passion for art early in her education. She was inspired to teach art after a vicar in Whetstone asked her to assist students at his arts centre. This experience led her to a live sculpting exhibition where she created a bust of the vicar, an event that solidified her commitment to the art form.
Her artistic career spans over 40 years, during which she has sculpted numerous public figures, including King Charles III, Dame Judi Dench, and Boris Johnson. Segelman is known for her ability to complete detailed sculptures in front of a live audience within a two-hour timeframe.
Current Projects and Legacy
Segelman's late husband, Sir Jack Petchey, was a businessman and philanthropist. Following his death in 2024, Segelman has continued a charitable aspect of her work, with funds from some sculptures going to various charities. She has also dedicated time to sculpting Holocaust survivors, an experience she finds deeply moving.
Currently, Segelman is working on a significant 20ft statue that is planned for transport to India. Despite her extensive career and notable subjects, she continues to express a desire to sculpt other figures, such as David Beckham or Stormzy.
Questions this report answers
+Where are Frances Segelman's sculptures of the Royal Family located?
Frances Segelman's sculptures of the late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip are located at Buckingham Palace. These works are part of her extensive portfolio of notable figures.
+What was Frances Segelman's experience like when sculpting the Queen?
Frances Segelman described feeling very nervous and 'shaking' while taking measurements of Queen Elizabeth II's face for her sculpture. Despite her nervousness, she found the Queen to be 'lovely' and was pleased with the final result.
+Does Frances Segelman have any connection to Whetstone?
Yes, Frances Segelman previously lived in Whetstone. She has stated that a vicar in the area asked her to help teach students, which inspired her passion for teaching art.
+What is Frances Segelman currently working on?
Frances Segelman is currently creating a large 20ft statue. This statue is intended to be transported to India.
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