Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth Commissions have transformed a simple pedestal into one of the most dynamic and talked-about public art spaces in the world. Originally intended to hold an equestrian statue of King William IV, the plinth remained empty for over 150 years, creating a unique opportunity for contemporary artists to showcase their work in the heart of London. Since 1999, a rotating program of temporary artworks has been installed, each piece provoking discussion and reflecting on current social, political, and cultural issues. These commissions have not only enlivened Trafalgar Square but have also become a symbol of modern Britain’s commitment to public art and creative expression.
The shortlisted artists for the Fourth Plinth in Trafalgar Square include:
1. Chila Kumari Singh Burman
2. Gabriel Chaile
3. Ruth Ewan
4. Thomas J Price
5. Veronica Ryan
6. Tschabalala Self
7. Andra Ursuţa
Winning sculptures
The winning sculptures for Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth in 2026 and 2028 have been announced. Tschabalala Self’s “Lady in Blue,” a bronze sculpture covered in lapis lazuli blue, pays homage to a metropolitan woman of colour and will be displayed in 2026. In 2028, Andra Ursuța’s “Untitled,” a green resin sculpture depicting a hollow, life-sized person on a horse covered in a shroud, will replace it. Both works were chosen from a shortlist of seven, which included a giant sweet potato and a colourful ice cream van. These selections continue the tradition of diverse artworks on the plinth since 1999, engaging with contemporary debates about public space. Self expressed her excitement and affection for London, a city that has always supported her art.
