Fourth Plinth

The fourth plinth stands in the northwest corner of Trafalgar Square, a grand public space in central London. It was designed in 1841 by Sir Charles Barry to hold an equestrian statue of William IV, but funds ran short and it remained empty for over a century. The square itself has four plinths, two in the south carrying statues of military figures and two larger northern plinths meant for mounted statues. The northeastern plinth holds a statue of George IV, while the northwest plinth became the focus of modern art in London. The plinth now hosts a rolling programme of temporary contemporary artworks, chosen by a commissioning group led by the Mayor of London’s Culture Team. Since 1999, leading national and international artists have created works displayed there, including a six-month installation of a fibreglass statue of Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park in 2009. The RSA first commissioned temporary sculptures in 1998, proving so popular that the Greater London Authority took over responsibility in 2003. Public debate continues over whether the plinth should ever hold a permanent statue. Visitors find a changing display of modern sculpture against the backdrop of Trafalgar Square’s historic buildings and fountains. The plinth sits near the National Gallery, making it easy to combine a visit with other cultural sights. The Fourth Plinth Schools Award encourages local pupils to explore the artworks through creative projects. Occasionally, unauthorised stunts have used the plinth, such as a David Beckham model during the 2002 World Cup. The site remains one of London’s most visible stages for public art and debate.