Sean Henry: Seated Figure

Sean Henry is known for depicting anonymous figures that appear thoughtful, introspective, and psychologically present. Rather than portraying idealized or heroic individuals, his sculptures focus on ordinary people and moments of quiet contemplation.

According to the artist, Seated Figure combines elements of his own appearance with references to Edvard Munch and Munch’s portrait of the Norwegian writer Hans Jæger.

Reflecting on the work and its placement at SSE, donor Johan H. Andresen commented:

“I think it says that it’s okay to just sit down. To sit down and let your thoughts flow. To reflect, create scenarios, daydream—in short, just be present in your very own life, or in a life not yet lived.”

A defining characteristic of Henry’s sculptures is their subtle departure from realism. Although highly detailed, the proportions are often deliberately altered, making the figures appear slightly too large or too small. This creates a sense of tension and encourages viewers to look more closely.

Seated Figure has also been exhibited at Yorkshire Sculpture Park in the United Kingdom alongside works by artists such as Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, and Jaume Plensa.

Sean Henry (born 1965 in Woking, Surrey) lives and works in Hampshire, United Kingdom. He graduated from Bristol School of Art and Design in 1987.

His public artworks include Walking Man in Holland Park, London (2000), Walking Woman in Ekebergparken, Oslo (2013), and Standing Man at Djurgården in Stockholm (2010). In 2008, he created Couple, a monumental sculpture installed off the coast of Northumberland in northern England.

Seated Figure
Painted bronze
Edition of 5

Sean Henry is represented by GAS Gallery.

Seated Figure was donated by Johan H. Andresen / Ferd AS.