Sculptor Sandy is a freeman of Renfrewshire

Jun 26 2009 by Kenneth Speirs, Paisley Daily Express

RENOWNED sculptor Sandy Stoddart was celebrating last night after being told he is to become the first Freeman of Renfrewshire in almost 50 years.

Paisley-based Mr Stoddart, 50, is a neoclassical sculptor with an international reputation and was recently appointed the Queen’s Sculptor in Ordinary in Scotland.

Now, following a move by Renfrewshire Provost Celia Lawson that was backed by Labour group leader Iain McMillan, he is to become the first Freeman of Renfrewshire since Mary Russell – founder of Paisley’s famed school – was honoured in the same way in 1961.

It is the highest honour the local authority can bestow upon an individual.

The move was acclaimed by all parties at yesterday’s Renfrewshire Council meeting.

Provost Lawson said: “Sandy Stoddart is a world-renowned sculptor whose work has been recognised across the globe.

“He has produced some of the finest monuments in Scotland, including two in Edinburgh, and earlier this year was named as the Queen’s Sculptor in Ordinary in Scotland.

“Despite his international acclaim, Sandy still lives and works in Paisley and is a devoted and proud supporter and promoter of Renfrewshire. In turn, Renfrewshire is rightly proud of him too.

“This is a rare title to bestow but I can think of no-one more deserving than this extraordinary artist who has made an outstanding contribution to the arts in general and in particular sculpture.”

Although Mr Stoddart was aware he was being considered for the honour, he did not know it had been approved until he was informed yesterday by the Paisley Daily Express.

He said: “This is quite a turn-around. As someone who has suffered resistance all his life, it is that gratifying that this irresistible force is changing.”

Mr Stoddart added that he is deeply grateful for the honour and that Paisley remains at the centre of his artistic ambitions.

“It is not New York, Paris or Dusseldorf but Paisley I am devoted to,” he told the Express.

Historically, Mr Stoddart’s new title would have provided him with rights such as to trade and to graze cattle. However, it is now purely a civic honour.

A special ceremony will now be arranged at which he will officially be named a Freeman of Renfrewshire.