Saxon Molecules at Crawter’s Brook Peoples Park
2025
The Crawter’s Molecules sculpture is a hybrid piece that also incorporates the theme of science, a reference to the prevalence of science based businesses within Manor Royal.
The overall shape of the sculpture takes the form of a simple molecular structure, a recognisable symbol of science and experimentation. The Saxon motifs on each of the molecules is inspired by Saxon coins and suggests the nearby buried wooden structure that might have been a bridge from that era.
The crow image on the largest molecule refers to a gathering of crows from which Crawley’s name is derived.
It is one of three sculptures the sculptor Andrew McKeown was commissioned to deliver as part of the Lost Woodland Gallery.
This piece can be found in the south-eastern corner of the path that circles the flood alleviation basin at Crawter’s Brook People’s Park.
Zone 4 (Green Zone)
For Crawter’s Brook People’s Park, McKeown developed a series of ideas under the theme of the “Lost Woodland Gallery.” His concept imagines sculptural fragments that appear to have been “claimed by nature, partially rediscovered, fossilised, preserved in time,” reflecting both the woodland setting and Manor Royal’s long history of experimentation and innovation. Artist: Andrew McKeown - www.andrewmckeown.com
Archaeological investigations reveal a buried bridge structure within the sunken attenuation area. Made from flat planks, posts and brushwood the bridge could date to the Middle Ages or earlier.
