On the Friday morning of my stay in Newcastle, I hopped aboard a bus. It was one of those magic talking buses. “The next stop is Widdleton Crossroads,” it said. “If this is your stop, ring the bell once and remain seated until the bus stops.”
At EVERY stop. EVERY 30 seconds. Needless to say it got a bit wearing after a while. However, it did come in handy when, after about 20 minutes or so, I heard the announcement for “Angel of the North”.
Having said that, it’s quite hard to miss the stop – there’s a noticeable landmark nearby.
My problem at this point – how to get to it. Between the bus stop and the Angel was a fearsome six-lane expressway, with little indication of how to cross it. I eventually worked out that you have to walk down to the roundabout, cross there, and follow a footpath back up.
I suppose technically there is a signpost…
Still, it was worth risking getting mown down by articulated lorries to see the majestic statue up close. Antony Gormley has created many fine works (including, of course, the Another Place installation on Crosby beach) but this is a true classic.
Be honest, when you think of Newcastle, what is the first thing that comes into your head? Is it this, perchance?
There were people dotted around taking selfies, all outstretched arms and silly grins. That’s not the correct approach to a profound piece of public art.
Much more dignified.
23rd June 2014 at 10:29 pm
I think that statue thing is absolutely hideous.