In spring 1968, a striking black-painted steel sculpture was unveiled in Thornaby-on-Tees. Standing 21 feet high, 30 feet long and 9 feet wide, it was not only an ambitious abstract work but, at the time, one of the largest outdoor abstract sculptures in Britain. Created by London-based artist Brian Wall (b. 1931) in collaboration with Thornaby’s steelworks company, Head Wrightson Ltd, Thornaby was a groundbreaking commission for the artist, the company and the town. Named simply after the place where it was created and displayed, the sculpture remains in Thornaby today.