Created by: Nicholas Hopper
Sponsored by: BAE Systems
Location: Southsea Castle / The D-Day Story
In 1915, Southsea resident Norman Wilkinson CBE witnessed the tragic Gallipoli landings. When he returned to Portsmouth Naval Base, he created the idea of “Dazzle Painting” to help protect ships from submarine attacks. By covering a ships hull with angular black-and-white stripes, he distorted its silhouette, making it difficult for enemies to judge its speed, distance and heading.
Wilkinson’s invention not only saved lives but also helped inspire the Vorticist art movement, the UK’s answer to Cubism. This tradition of creative innovation in Portsmouth continued into the 1960s with Op-Art pioneer and Southsea resident Jeffrey Steele. His striking geometric designs followed the same black-and-white tradition and later influenced major figures such as artist Bridget Riley and fashion designer Mary Quant.
Wilkinson’s legacy shows how Portsmouth’s military ingenuity reshaped the modern world. This combines military strategy with an avant-garde style that went on to influence some of the 20th century’s most famous designers.
Audio description
Listen to a 29 second audio description of the BAE Systems lion sculpture.
How to apply
Submit your design idea through our online application form.
