Standing tall in the grounds of Limnerslease, Physical Energy is one of the most striking sculptures you'll ever see up close.
George Frederic Watts worked on this sculpture for more than twenty years, constantly reshaping it, never quite satisfied. He was after something bigger than a portrait of a horse and rider. He wanted to capture human ambition itself, the drive to keep moving forward against the odds.
In 2017, to mark what would have been Watts's 200th birthday, Watts Gallery Trust set out to create a brand new bronze cast of this remarkable sculpture. It couldn't have happened without a successful crowdfunding campaign and the generosity of many people: neighbours, volunteers, local Compton residents, artists, donors and friends of the gallery all played a part.
Before finding its permanent home at Limnerslease, this bronze had a moment in the spotlight in London, displayed in the Royal Academy's Annenberg Courtyard as part of the Academy's 250th anniversary celebrations.
Physical Energy is on permanent display in the grounds of Limnerslease, next to the house where G F and Mary Watts lived and worked. It's included in a visit to Watts Gallery and well worth the walk over.