This is William. He’s made from ceramic tiles, some of which were reclaimed from houses in and around BS3.

William began as a tribute to Santiago, the aging fisherman in Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea—a symbol of endurance, struggle, and quiet perseverance. But as the piece progressed, I began to see something else in his face: pain. The more I worked, the more it stirred something deeper in me.

I started reflecting on how we treat the elderly in our communities—and how often we overlook them. I carry a lot of guilt in that area. This mosaic took me to places I hadn’t fully explored since losing important people in my life. I don’t know if it was a conscious intention or a kind of emotional self-defense—probably both. At times, I just wished for one more cup of tea with them.

I even got a nasty cut on my thumb from the snips—there was quite literally blood, sweat, and tears in this one.

Over time, the piece shifted. William became something more: a quiet reminder to really see those we might otherwise forget. I hope he inspires not just reflection, but action.

I'm honoured to have William installed at Ebenezer Gate Pocket Park in my home city of Bristol, alongside the work of many talented @upfest artists.

The final photo shows the plaque that will accompany William. If you can, please take a moment to read it.