Rudder – Keelman Square – Andrew Burton (1996)

The piece is a striking but simple, rudder like form, which is subtly curved. At its highest point the form flows into a step like feature with elements, which curve out of the sculpture. The bronze is patinated green and has a aried surface, which is apparently smooth but if examined more closely has imperfections, which invite the viewer to touch the metal.

Rudder is a partner piece to Column and Steps nearby. The 1990s saw the transformation of Newcastle’s Quayside. Costing £170 million, Tyne and Wear Development Corporation’s overall scheme was designed by Terry Farrell Associates, with public art being seen as integral to the aesthetic appeal of the area.