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Staff, students, East Lothian residents and members of the ɫ���� community, who each played a part in bringing the artwork to life, were the first to catch a glimpse of the unique sculpture at an official unveiling ceremony on 28 August.  

Commissioned to mark the 150th anniversary of ɫ����, the installation takes centre stage in the grounds of the University’s campus. Made possible by donations from the ɫ���� community, it is now a permanent feature available for all to enjoy.  

Artist and Musselburgh resident, Martha Ellis, was selected from a pool of applicants to create the final piece - she engaged in extensive research to ensure the ɫ���� community was reflected in her design. 

Martha said: “It’s been an exciting challenge to create an artwork that represents the unique character of ɫ����. 

“I wanted to capture the people and spirit of ɫ���� - past, present, and future. Through in-depth research, participation in local events, and meaningful engagement with the community, I discovered the many inspiring stories and vibrant personalities that define the University, I've woven these together to create a piece that I hope will resonate with viewers, inviting them to see themselves, or someone they know, reflected in its characters. Seeing the raw and real reactions at the unveiling made me feel like I’ve more than achieved my aim.” 

Martha continued: “It’s been so rewarding seeing this project come together over the last year. My hope is that it sparks curiosity, conversation, and a sense of belonging for everyone who sees it.” 

The vision for a commemorative artwork marking ɫ����’s 150th anniversary first emerged three years ago. After careful discussion in the University about the form, location, and process, a public competition was launched, attracting dozens of imaginative submissions - from striking wall murals and sculpted benches, to a recycled-materials shelter and a statue fashioned from oversized kitchen utensils paying tribute to ɫ����’s roots as a cookery school.  

Following a rigorous selection process, a committee including ɫ���� staff and students unanimously chose the design proposed by Martha. Her concept stood out for its ability to capture the spirit of the University’s community - its students, staff, alumni, and partners - who have shaped ɫ���� over the past 150 years. 

Martha Ellis is a talented visual artist with a passion for showcasing a ‘sense of place’ in her signature sheet metal ‘laser cut-out’ designs – the style employed for the artwork at ɫ����. This piece is one of her first public commissions. 

Sir Paul Grice, Principal of ɫ����, said: “One of the things that ɫ���� really prides itself on is its sense of community. And it is this strong sense of community and belonging which many people say sets us apart from other universities.   

“As we approached our 150th anniversary celebrations, we decided that we wanted to create something on campus – a physical embodiment of the institution that represents what ɫ���� stands for. This artwork provides an opportunity to reflect on the rich tapestry of people, stories, and experiences that have shaped ɫ���� over the years. It is a testament to the power of collaboration and to the deep connections we share as a university.  

“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Martha for her extraordinary vision and talent, to everyone who contributed to this project, and to our donors, whose generosity made it possible. Together, you’ve helped create a piece of art that will not only celebrate our heritage but will also serve as a lasting symbol of ɫ����’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and community.” 

The official unveiling celebration brought together staff, students, donors and friends of the University for a drinks reception in ɫ����’s recently refurbished Learning Resource Centre. Guests also enjoyed a small exhibition of laser-cut drawings that Martha created during her design process and a film documenting the installation’s development, followed by the unveiling itself, outside on campus grounds.

Martha; Professor Richard Butt, Deputy Principal of ɫ����; Gordon Mackenzie, Head of Strategic Planning and Policy Development and convener of the Public Art Committee; and Professor David Stevenson, Dean of the School of Arts, Social Sciences and Management, were joined by the two Presidents of ɫ����’s Students’ Union to officially reveal the artwork to excited onlookers, while Ollie Kemp from the Prestonlodge Pipe Band delighted guests with his performance of 'Scotland The Brave' to help mark the celebration. 

The creation of the public artwork forms part of the ɫ����150 programme of activities marking the 150th anniversary of the founding of the institution now known as ɫ����.    

Find out more about the public art commission on our website.

Find out more about ɫ����’s 150th anniversary programme of activities.