Angular figurative sculpture Hope, designed by Jacob Chandler and Fabricated by Stainless Design and Fabrication in Shropshire. Installed outside the Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital (MMUH)
Angular figurative sculpture Hope, designed by Jacob Chandler and Fabricated by Stainless Design and Fabrication in Shropshire. Installed outside the Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital (MMUH)
Jacob Chandler and Ethon from Vasight looking proud of themselves after the sculpture Hope was installed outside the front entrance of the Midlands Metropolitan University Hospital. The Angular figurative sculpture Hope, designed by Jacob Chandler a
Jacob Chandler stands with contactors outside the midlands metropolitan university hospital (MMUH) both are wearing high vis and ppe with the hospital in the background
Jacob stands inside the Midlands Met on the day of installing the sculpture
Angular figurative sculpture Hope, designed by Jacob Chandler and Fabricated by Stainless Design and Fabrication in Shropshire. The Sculpture glistens in the sun ahead of preparation for install outside the Midlands Metropolitan University hospital i
Angular figurative sculpture Hope, designed by Jacob Chandler and Fabricated by Stainless Design and Fabrication in Shropshire. The Sculpture is completed in the workshop and the fabricator stands with the work
Angular figurative sculpture Hope, designed by Jacob Chandler and Fabricated by Stainless Design and Fabrication in Shropshire. The fabricator stands with the work and holds the head in position for confirmation before assembly
Jacob Chandler stands outside the front of Stainless Design and Fabrication with the maquette (sculptors model) of Hope which will eventually be scaled up digitally five times to make a three metre tall sculpture.
The maquette for Jacob Chandler's sculpture Hope in the workshop with a distressed pattern of where the paint layers are all revealed.
Inside Chandlers workshop with facemask, spray can, sanding tools and hope sculpture in progress. A thin layer of dust coats all surfaces
Inside Chandlers workshop, Hope sculpture in progress
Inside Chandlers workshop, Hope sculpture in progress

Your City and Metropolitan Hospitals Charity. - the registered charity of Sandwell & West Birmingham NHS Trust - has the following mission:

“To enhance the experience of all people using our services including staff, patients and their families. We will do this by providing additional facilities and supporting innovative projects that create a comfortable and secure environment.”

Chandler’s sculpture “Hope” Which stands at the main entrance to The Midland Metropolitan University Hospital certainly fulfils this mission, she stands with her arm outstretched reminiscent of Florence Nightingale as an emblem of gratitude to those who put their life on the line to battle covid. She lights the way for visitors and her Amazonian strength and proportions radiates control and valour. She really symbolised the hope we feel when we enter the building.  

At the base, the figure stands atop a stylised kite shield, symbolising the bravery of frontline healthcare professionals. The figure dances on the shield, rather than using it for protection, representing the selflessness of healthcare workers who risked their own safety to save others during the pandemic.

A Universal Symbol

"Hope" transcends race, creed, and background, reflecting the diversity of the community the hospital serves. The sculpture is designed to welcome all visitors, patients, families, and staff alike. It is a beacon of light and hope, aiming to bring comfort during what can often be difficult times.

A Lasting Tribute

This sculpture is not only a tribute to the tireless efforts of hospital staff, but also to the patients and families who endure. "Hope" stands as a reminder of the resilience and dedication of healthcare professionals—not just through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, but in the everyday work they do to care for others. It represents the hope that the hospital brings to the community—a hope for healing, for recovery, and for a better future.

Project Supporters and Creative Partners

Stainless Design and Fabrication 

Stainless Design & Fabrications Ltd was established in 2001 and is now synonymous with the highest standards of quality and service. We specialise in the production of one-off and bespoke projects in stainless steel and aluminium.

Quote from Tim Warren / Stainless design and Fabrication 

 

Metlase

“We love the industrial automotive style of this piece which really reflects our parent companies’ markets and our own involvement in high-tech, mechanical engineering. We are proud to have been a part of this project and really value the importance of the messaging it delivers. We're glad to be involved in creating a sculpture that will act as a beacon of hope for all those that pass through the hospital doors”

Quote from Metlase