A statue commemorating Andover station’s beloved cat Jess is nearing its final stages; the cat’s ashes have now been interred.
This heartfelt tribute was created by artist Amy Goodman following a successful fundraising campaign by members of a Facebook group dedicated to commemorating Jess’s life and escapades, which raised over £5,000 for the project.
Amy Goodman shared her thoughts on the project, saying: “It’s really a heartwarming project to be a part of. Jess was very popular with visitors and commuters at the station.” She added: “Every subject I work on, including Jess, inspires me to do my best and capture the essence of the memories people have of them.”
Carefully crafted from clay, the statue depicts Jess in a lifelike pose based on a photograph of the black and white cat. The sculpture was then taken to the Talos Art Foundry in Quarley where it was cast in bronze. The statue is currently split into two pieces to facilitate the placement of Jess’s ashes within the hollow figure. Once the ashes are safely enclosed, an inscription dedicated to Jess will be engraved into the statue and the two pieces will be welded together.
In the final stages of the process, Amy will use a pencil sander to add the final textures to the bronze sculpture before it is patinated – a treatment that involves applying a protective coating to protect it from the elements. Once completed, the statue will be returned to Andover train station, where Jess spent his days, taking pride of place in the ticket office.
Regarding the upcoming reveal, Amy said: “It will be a very special and emotional day when the statue is unveiled at the box office. It feels like Jess is coming home and in a way he will be home forever.”
Before the statue is installed at the station, the public will have the opportunity to view it at an open workshop at Lain’s Farm in Quarley on 17 and 18 August. The event will also showcase the studios of other local artists, including stone sculptor Zoe Wilson, ceramicist Elaine Peto, painters Soraya French and Alice Straker, textile artist Katy Rundle and sculptors Matt Duke and Pat Bule.
Amy shared her excitement for the event, saying: “I love talking to people and sharing the creative process with them. It’s a busy time with so many artists and makers, but it’s wonderful for people to see us at work.”
Tracey, a local resident who played a key role in Jess’s memorial, visited the Talos Art Foundry to witness the progress of the statue. The visit was particularly poignant as she brought Jess’s ashes with her to be incorporated into the bronze sculpture. Looking back on the experience, Amy noted how emotional it was to hold Jess’s ashes and how meaningful the project was to those involved.
Jess’ statue is due to be completed next week, with the distinctive tuxedo markings being carefully applied to the end piece. Amy thanked the foundry team and everyone who supported the project, saying: “It was a special experience to shape Jess for everyone who loved him.”
