Courage & Kindness

2024

Unique

Repurposed polystyrene, eco-friendly resin, hand patinated with Bronze pigments

‘Courage & Kindness’ is one of the four monumental sculptures Smith was commissioned to make for the Royal Masonic School for Girls as an artist in residence.

Inspired by the school's values, she created sculptures that symbolise these values. These values include courage, kindness, inclusivity, integrity, ambition, and perseverance.

More information on the project can be found here, alongside Smith's creative column, which she wrote in the build-up to the sculpture’s unveiling.


When Lydia was designing this sculpture someone remarked how they were surprised she had combined these two values as they felt they were opposing forces. 

Courage and kindness may initially seem like opposing forces, with courage often associated with assertiveness and risk-taking, while kindness is linked to compassion and empathy. 

However, when combined, these qualities form a powerful synergy that fosters great outcomes. Courage enables individuals to stand up for what is right, to take bold action in the face of adversity, while kindness tempers this courage with empathy and understanding. 

Together, they create a harmonious balance, allowing people to navigate challenges with strength and compassion, inspiring others and fostering a sense of unity and cooperation that paves the way for transformative outcomes and positive change.