Hands and Molecule sculpture

The Hands and Molecule sculpture is a striking 2.4-metre (8-foot) bronze landmark on Ramsgate’s scenic West Cliff Promenade. Perched along the Royal Esplanade, this prominent artwork depicts a giant pair of hands emerging from the ground to cradle a complex molecular structure. The sculpture overlooks Pegwell Bay.

Designed by British sculptor David Barnes, the piece celebrates the “discovery, development, and manufacture of innovative medicines” in East Kent. It was fully funded by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, which historically operated a massive research and development hub in nearby Sandwich.

The sculpture enjoys a remarkably high national profile. In a 2021 nationwide poll by Sky Arts to mark the launch of their Landmark series, it was voted the UK’s 7th favourite piece of free-to-view outdoor art. Today, it remains a beloved coastal icon and a spectacular backdrop for photography, particularly at sunset.

The sculpture is part of the Public Art Trail.

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CONTACT

📍Address : Prince Edward’s Promenade, along the Royal Esplanade, Ramsgate CT11 0HE