John J. Fox
Latest Reviews
Statue of Oliver Cromwell
2024 Jun 28
This now grade two listed elegant cast bronze statue was originally funded by a Liberal Party politician Archibald Philip Primrose and finally unveiled in October 1899. It underwent extensive restoration work in 2008 which was completed for the 350th anniversary of Cromwell's death in 1658. Indeed the suitably elevated "Lord Protector" stares benignly down at onlookers from his Portland stone plinth with a resting lion at its base watching warily on. A source of heated debate and controversy, this legendary statesman nevertheless has left his mark in history and uniquely oversaw an eleven year end to the British Monarchy which was vexingly restored in 1660.
Richard Wagner Monument
2024 Feb 26
An elegant protectively roofed marble monument by Gustav Eberlein commissioned in 1901. The resplendent seated figure of Richard Wagner symbolically reposes over Wolfram von Eschenbach, Tannhauser, Alberich, Brunhilde and Siegfried at its base, all various characters from his musical works. Having survived World War Two unscathed it nevertheless went through restoration work during the nineteen eighties.
Fairhill Square Park
2023 Jun 12
Attractively designed two acres Community Park in North East Philadelphia. Tree lined perimeter and green spaces between converging paths with seating. Colourful adventure playground suitable for children from approximately age three up to around ten years old. An interesting "El Gran Teatro de la Luna" (The Huge Theatre of the Moon) feature provides opportunities for outdoor drama, cultural and musical activities. Overall a much appreciated neighbourhood space utilized throughout all seasons of the year.
Jan Palach and Jan Zajíc memorial
2022 May 04
It was a solemn pilgrimage for me to visit the Jan Palach and Jan Zajic memorials in Prague's famous Wenceslas Square, particularly a flame warped bronze cross embedded in the cobblestones symbolically marking the tragic act of self immolation. Hauntingly that single event in 1969 followed by other protest actions against the oppressive effects of foreign totalitarian occupation resonates powerfully down through time to the present day. Indeed yet another malovelent regeme from that part of Europe which originally compromised Czech freedom, now attempts to enslave the independent sovereign nation of Ukraine!
Michelangelo Playground Park
2022 Feb 20
Small neighbourhood social gathering and childrens playground location. Paths bordered by grass, trees and shrubs to stroll around. Picnic facilities, community garden, basketball practice hoops and of course, conducive to hours of family fun the all important slides and adventure activities area. Ample seating throughout for citizens who may simply prefer to read or relax. Although just over 1780 square metres, this well designed inner city micro nook ingeniously utilizes every available space!