Bronze horse statue 'Fluffy' makes a comeback to Walsall Arboretum
A life-sized bronze sculpture of a horse has made a comeback after being locked away for years in storage.
‘Fluffy’ has been turning heads after it was installed at Walsall Arboretum this week.
It has appeared as part of the park’s Industrial Garden, an ongoing restoration project to boost visitor numbers.
But it’s not the first time the unusual artwork has been displayed in the town. Fluffy is not as new as some may think because it dates back to the 1990s when Walsall Council commissioned the sculpture of a horse to represent the industrial heritage of the town.
Some may know it from its first home which was outside The Civic Centre.
The reason it has not been easily recognised is because it was unfortunately vandalised and held in storage for several years.
The sculpture was designed by artist Marjan Wouda as a tribute to Walsall’s saddlery and leatherwork trades.
The town was went from a small market town before taking to the international stage and being renowned for saddle-making in particular.
Councillor Chris Jones, spokesman for clean and green, said: “I know some people have commented that, from photographs they’ve seen, the horse looks like it needs a square meal.
“What I’d say though is that people should go and have a look for themselves.
“The detail on the sculpture, which reflects the tools used in Walsall’s internationally renowned leather trade, is fascinating.”
Over the summer, work will be done as part of the restoration project at the park to complete the garden around the sculpture and other pieces will be added over time.
