River God Tyne (Civic Centre)
This amazing piece is found outside the Civic Centre, just outside of Newcastle University's campus. It is a strong, powerful piece that really speaks to the average viewer, evoking something emotive from inside of them. The statue, once a much darker, bronze colour, has now tarnished into a green and brown blend of colours due to the running water which used to flow downwards from his raised right arm. Although this statue doesn't have the trickling water on display anymore, it is a stunning piece of artwork nonetheless.
Grey's Monument
Earning its spot on the list just for how iconic this piece is. Grey's Monument stands tall and proud, overlooking the City Centre and witnessing all of the questionable, manic things everyone gets up to at the end of their nights out. One day I'd like to brave the 164 steps to the top, but today (or the next day...) is not that day.
River God & Siren (Quayside)
Not to be confused with the over River God statue on this list, this incredible pair of statues can be found separately towards Newcastle's quayside. The River God is next to the Millennium Bridge. The Siren, on the other hand, is found just metres away. She gazes upon her counterpart, as well as the Millennium Bridge. Although a distance apart, these beautiful statues curated by André Wallace should only ever be discussed as a set of two.
Iron Man
This one may be my favourite in terms of actual appearance. Located in the Black Swan Courtyard of the Newcastle Arts Centre lives this incredible sculpture that was previously used as a stage puppet in the musical, 'The Iron Man'. In the performance, Iron Man protects its community, so I feel very reassured having this impressive sculpture just a few minutes walk from Central Station.
Man With Potential Selves
I feel like there is no argument against crowning this series of statues as Newcastle's finest. From being greeted by them as the first thing you see when stepping out of the train station, to being featured in the iconic "when your card declines in therapy so they bring in..." meme. The statues are individually named the Standing Man, Walking Man, and Floating Man and each represents the alter ego of the average working man. I resonate with the Floating Man the most.
