WERE you the two girls who posed as models for this sculpture, which has just returned to its spiritual home of Taunton?

The Whisper is back as a focal point as a taster for a new cultural era in the county town for the next eight weeks.

The work started life outside the former Odeon cinema on the corner of Staplegrove Road – now Laverock Court – where young people would meet up and sit on the railings.

It was created by local artist Andre Wallace and was exhibited at the Royal Academy, in London, before being commission in bronze for a site outside the library in Milton Keynes.

Mr Wallace said the idea of the piece came from observing how people interacted in the town centre and formed one of a number of works depicting people from all walks of life going about their daily business.

He said: “I want the viewer to invent their own story and interpretation of what has, is, or is about to happen.”

The Whisper is returning to Taunton thanks to the efforts of ArtsTaunton, working with Taunton Deane Council.

Ian Timms, the council’s assistant director for business development, said. “I am delighted that Taunton will be hosting such a beautiful artwork.  I would urge people to visit Castle Green and see original, contemporary art in the open air.”

Kit Chapman, chairman of ArtsTaunton, said: “By working with the council and TauntonForward over the next few years we aim to create a unique urban sculpture park for Taunton which will bring visitors to our county town as well as provide a trail of exciting art pieces for local people to enjoy.

“While The Whisper will only be here for a limited time, it provides a taster of the kind of art that could be part of our sculpture park in the coming years.”

*If you were the models for The Whisper, give us a call on 01823-365100 or e-mail newsdesk@countygazette.co.uk