Beryl Cook’s characters come to life across Plymouth

Beryl Cook’s characters come to life across Plymouth

Life-size sculptures celebrate Britain’s most popular painter in centenary year.

Plymouth’s streets have been transformed with joy and colour as four life-size 3D sculptures based on Beryl Cook’s iconic paintings appear across the city to coincide with the major exhibition Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy at The Box (24 January-31 May 2026). In partnership with Theatre Royal Plymouth, The Box is bringing some of Cook’s beloved characters off the canvas and into the very locations that inspired them, creating the ultimate celebration of Plymouth’s celebrated artist in the centenary year of her birth.

The four figures have been carefully selected in consultation with Cook’s family and feature scenes deeply rooted in Plymouth life:

Sailors and Seagulls (1970)

One of the jolly sailors takes up residence on the bench outside The Dolphin pub on Southside Street, The Barbican, ready for countless selfies with locals and visitors alike.

Pannier Market (1978)

A cheerful shopper by Plymouth Market, capturing the bustle of Plymouth’s shopping heart just as Beryl painted it.

Sabotage (1975)

A bowls player mid-game positioned on the edge of the Peace Garden on The Hoe, near the very bowling green that inspired the painting.

Tom Dancing (1976)

The figure of Brian Pearce (aka drag performer Ruby Venezuela) stands near the former Lockyer Tavern on Old George Street in the city centre, celebrating Plymouth’s vibrant LGBTQ+ history and nightlife.

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