Verity

Well worth a visit to see this iconic statue by Damien Hirst on the Harbour in Ilfracombe

Absolutely stunning artwork and interpretation of justice and strength, the statue is so unique and as you approach from afar its immense size is incredible and leaves you in awe, the information boards below the statue are a great addition and give so much information.

We were surprised to discover this impressive, large, 20 meter high statue of a woman at the mouth of Ilfracombe Harbour. It is a bronze sculpture created by Damien Hirst. On one side it depicts the outer form with her holding a sword and scales - justice and truth. The other side is a bit more gruesome showing her internal organs and a baby developing in her womb. Not the sort of thing you'll find gracing most harbour entrances.

The sheer size of this statue gets you. You don't necessarily expect something on this epic scale in a place like Ilfracombe.

I used to be a regular visitor 1980s/1990s but hadn't been for about 20 years. Had no idea about the statue until I got here. Great surprise.

Despite the size of it, the statue fits perfectly at the mouth of Ilfracombe's harbour, which already enjoys a dramatic setting.

Like someone else mentioned, the statue and the seeing reminds you of Colossus of Rhodes.

Why truth and justice? Why the skin layers? I don't know. Maybe I'll look it up later, but my initial reaction is, wow - look at the size of that thing! Cool!

Infective is one of my favourite places. This statue has improved it.

Verity is a striking bronze sculpture by artist Damien Hirst, located at the edge of Ilfracombe Harbour in North Devon. Standing 20 metres tall, the statue depicts a pregnant woman holding a sword in one hand and scales behind her back, symbolising justice and truth. One side of the statue shows the woman's outer form, while the other side is anatomically exposed, revealing muscles, organs, and the unborn baby inside her womb.

Installed in 2012, Verity has become a major landmark in Ilfracombe, attracting visitors from around the country. The statue stands on a base of legal books, further reinforcing its symbolic message of justice and strength. The detail in the sculpture is impressive, and its scale makes it visible from many points around the harbour.

Public opinion has been mixed—some admire its bold design and powerful message, while others find it controversial or challenging to look at. Regardless of opinion, it has undeniably put Ilfracombe on the cultural map.

Visiting Verity in person allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and the impact of the piece. It’s a thought-provoking work of art that adds a unique and modern element to the traditional coastal scenery of the town.

To have an incredible sculpture by one of the greatest living artists in Ilfracombe is amazing. A modern day colossus of Rhodes in North Devon.