Help Raise A Statue for Sylvia Townsend Warner.

Who was Sylvia Townsend Warner, and why does she deserve a statue?

Sylvia Townsend Warner was a pioneering novelist and poet whose work defied conventions in literature and life. A contemporary of Virginia Woolf and Djuna Barnes, Warner gained early recognition with her debut novel Lolly Willowes (1926), which was shortlisted for the Prix Femina. It marked her out as a fresh voice in modernist fiction.

Sylvia in the 1920s

A sharp wit.

Over her career, Warner wrote many novels and contributed short stories to the New Yorker for over forty years. Her literary work, characterised by sharp wit and profound understanding, frequently explored the oddities and complexities of human nature. Through her writing and storytelling, Townsend Warner looked closely at the contradictions and idiosyncrasies of human life, often revealing profound truths about society and personal identity. 

Sylvia in later life.

Valentine Ackland, her long-term partner.

Townsend Warner's personal life was just as remarkable as her literary achievements. She spent most of her adult life in rural Dorset with poet Valentine Ackland, her long-term partner. At a time when same-sex relationships were heavily stigmatised, their partnership defied societal expectations, positioning both Townsend Warner and Ackland as pioneers for LGBTQ+ visibility and acceptance.

Valentine and Sylvia.

Unsung female trailblazer.

Though Townsend Warner’s reputation was revived in the 1970s with the Virago Modern Classics series, she remains an underappreciated figure. In a literary landscape traditionally dominated by Dorset’s celebrated male writers like Thomas Hardy and William Barnes, it is essential to recognise the voice and contributions of an unsung female trailblazer like Townsend Warner.

Sylvia and her love of cats.

So why a statue?

We aim to honour Townsend Warner’s legacy by introducing her physical presence into Dorchester with a beautiful work of art. This public artwork will serve as a focal point of remembrance and respect, celebrating Dorchester's rich and diverse heritage while ensuring that her personal and literary story continues to inspire. Especially in rural communities, where LGBTQ+ heritage can often be lost or overlooked, such a tribute would provide visibility and connection, offering the next generation a chance to see themselves reflected in their town’s history. By championing Townsend Warner’s legacy, we aim to introduce her work to new readers, inspire further scholarly debate, and pave the way for greater acceptance and equality.

Denise Dutton’s preliminary sketch of how the statue could look.

Susie the Cat

Sylvia was an avid cat lover, and over the years, she was often photographed with her cherished feline companions. Naturally, we felt it fitting to include a cat in her sculpture, and who better to serve as the model than Dorchester’s own Susie the Cat? We’ve spoken with Susie’s owners, who are thrilled she will help sculptor Denise Dutton bring this beautiful bronze statue to life for Dorchester.

Sylvia, her feline companions & Susie the Cat

Our Patron, Tracy Chevalier 

We are incredibly fortunate to have the support and patronage of one of Dorset’s most celebrated writers, Tracy Chevalier. Known worldwide for her best-selling novels that bring to life forgotten histories—especially those of overlooked or underrepresented women—Tracy’s dedication to illuminating untold female stories makes her the perfect fit for our campaign. We couldn’t be more thankful for her support.

Novelist & Patron Tracy Chevalier

Be a part of this important campaign.

Become a part of this historic campaign to get Sylvia Townsend Warner her statue in Dorchester, Dorset. Please donate what you can; every penny will make a real difference in recognising Townsend Warner's significance and legacy for future generations. 

Thank you!