Anne Boleyn Returns – Carshalton Heritage in Watercolour
When history disappears, it leaves a quiet ache. When it returns, it feels like a piece of identity being restored. This is the story of Anne Boleyn's homecoming to Carshalton and the watercolour that captures that powerful moment.
When history disappears, it leaves a quiet ache. When it returns, it feels like a piece of identity being restored. On 19 May 2025, the Anne Boleyn statue in Carshalton was finally returned to her plinth after 14 years away. Sculpted by Dennis Huntley in 1968, the Tudor queen had long been a familiar figure above the ponds. Her removal for restoration left an empty space — and her reinstatement became a moment of community pride.
I was there that morning, among the crowd gathered for the ceremony. Local residents, heritage groups, and Sutton Housing Partnership came together to witness her homecoming. Seeing the statue lifted back into place against the backdrop of All Saints Church Carshalton, I felt the weight of history merging with the present. It was a moment too powerful not to paint.
A Moment of Community Pride
Anne Boleyn Returns is my way of honouring that day — capturing both the statue's renewed presence and the community that stood to welcome her back. This watercolour reflects resilience, continuity, and the truth that heritage can be lost and found again.
"This watercolour captures a moment of local history: the restored Anne Boleyn statue returned to her plinth in Carshalton, overlooking All Saints Church. Once lost to time, the Tudor queen now stands proudly again, a reminder of resilience and continuity in the community."
Painted in Fresh Washes of Light and Detail
Painted in fresh washes of light and detail, Anne Boleyn Returns is both a celebration of South London heritage and a meditation on permanence. The balance of architecture, foliage, and sky reflects how history and the present coexist, offering viewers a sense of connection and rootedness.
Perfect for those who love local history art, Tudor heritage, or simply want a meaningful piece of Carshalton's story in their home.
A Piece of South London's Story
This artwork holds space for anyone who values local identity. It belongs in the homes of Carshalton residents proud of their roots, in heritage and history lovers' collections, and in spaces where a reminder of endurance and renewal brings calm.
✨ Bring home a piece of South London's story. Anne Boleyn Returns is available as an original watercolour and fine art prints.
Enquire About This ArtworkExplore More South London Heritage Art
Discover more watercolours celebrating the unique heritage and landmarks of South London in our dedicated South London Artwork gallery page.
South London heritage watercolour — Inspired by Carshalton
Discover the peaceful ponds near All Saints Church captured in this companion South London heritage watercolour.
Read More →South London heritage watercolour — Echoes of Stone
Experience the historic 18th-century Grotto in Carshalton Park, another landmark South London heritage watercolour.
Read More →Simon Robin Stephens
South London watercolour artist creating heritage paintings and therapeutic landscapes. Working from a neurodivergent perspective, Simon captures the stories and sanctuaries that make our communities unique. Discover more heritage watercolours in the gallery section.
