Public Art: Verity — Attraction in North Devon

Verity is a striking bronze sculpture by artist Damien Hirst, located at the edge of Ilfracombe Harbour in North Devon. Standing 20 metres tall, the statue depicts a pregnant woman holding a sword in one hand and scales behind her back, symbolising justice and truth. One side of the statue shows the woman's outer form, while the other side is anatomically exposed, revealing muscles, organs, and the unborn baby inside her womb.

Installed in 2012, Verity has become a major landmark in Ilfracombe, attracting visitors from around the country. The statue stands on a base of legal books, further reinforcing its symbolic message of justice and strength. The detail in the sculpture is impressive, and its scale makes it visible from many points around the harbour.

Public opinion has been mixed—some admire its bold design and powerful message, while others find it controversial or challenging to look at. Regardless of opinion, it has undeniably put Ilfracombe on the cultural map.

Visiting Verity in person allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and the impact of the piece. It’s a thought-provoking work of art that adds a unique and modern element to the traditional coastal scenery...

This is a piece of public opinion dividing art!..stunning large sculpture of Verity in the harbour looking out to sea. Thought provoking and debate making work by Damien Hurst. I can imagine how much this could have caused some concern when erected by the local people as some would feel the sculpture rather graphic. Personally I really enjoyed seeing her set against the sea with a church on the cliff top to the left of the harbour bringing further reason for conversation. Parking in the harbour area and several other tourist information signs for other parking with views of the sculpture. Outside attraction so except for the parking charge free to view. Disability access throughout and public toilets in the harbour car park with...

The sheer size of this statue gets you. You don't necessarily expect something on this epic scale in a place like Ilfracombe.

I used to be a regular visitor 1980s/1990s but hadn't been for about 20 years. Had no idea about the statue until I got here. Great surprise.

Despite the size of it, the statue fits perfectly at the mouth of Ilfracombe's harbour, which already enjoys a dramatic setting.

Like someone else mentioned, the statue and the seeing reminds you of Colossus of Rhodes.

Why truth and justice? Why the skin layers? I don't know. Maybe I'll look it up later, but my initial reaction is, wow - look at the size of that thing! Cool!

Infective is one of my favourite places. This statue has...