Saad Qureshi’s 'Tower of Now' sculpture celebrates Bradford’s shared histories

A NEW public artwork reflecting Bradford’s history and cultural communities will be unveiled in the city this week.

Titled Tower of Now, the 15-metre sculpture by artist Saad Qureshi will be opened on April 26 at Hall Ings as part of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.

The artwork takes inspiration from architectural styles including Gothic, Flemish, Roman and Chinese, alongside religious traditions from Judaeo-Christian, Hindu, Islamic, and Buddhist influences, according to a statement. These elements combine to show shared histories in Bradford and Britain.

Tower of Now features his woodwork on a scale taller than three double-decker buses.

For Qureshi, this sculpture pays tribute to Bradford’s past and celebrates its present, noting the city’s wool trade heritage and architectural influences brought back by mill owners from their travels. It also honours industries that have attracted migrants from Europe and Asia.

Tower of Now

Shanaz Gulzar, creative director of Bradford 2025, said: “We’re thrilled to unveil this new artwork from Saad Qureshi, a reflection of Bradford’s heritage and identity. It’s a celebration of Bradford’s past – from the wealth generated by the wool trade to the influence of global architecture that has shaped our skyline. The sculpture is a representation of the communities that make up Bradford.”

Qureshi was born in Pakistan and raised in Bradford from the age of eight. His work explores memory, cultural identity, and belonging. He won The Frieze & The OWO Sculpture Prize has his work Convocation on view at Raffles London.

In 2023, he created a permanent Organ Donor Memorial for Royal London Hospital.

As the UK City of Culture 2025, Bradford will showcase its heritage and communities through a programme of events and commissions.