Len Goodman
A celebration of Len Goodman’s life and his contribution to Dartford
Dartford Borough Council has appointed FrancisKnight Public Art Consultancy for an exciting new commission to honour the legacy of Len Goodman, a celebrated professional ballroom dancer, teacher, and adjudicator.
Dartford is undergoing significant regeneration, upgrading the public realm and creating a vibrant town centre. This new floor based tribute will join the bronze statues of Sir Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, installed at One Bell Corner. Len Goodman, who ran the Goodman Dance Academy in Dartford, made significant contributions to the town, and this artwork will commemorate his remarkable achievements.
Len Goodman, a World Exhibition Champion and a key figure in the ballroom community, was a familiar face on TV, as the Head Judge on “Strictly Come Dancing” and its American counterpart “Dancing with the Stars.” The Goodman Dance Academy, celebrating over 50 years in Dartford, continues to be managed by his family, who are involved in this tribute.
The commission aligns with the town’s efforts to enhance its appeal, attracting both residents and visitors. The final artwork will be located on Market Street, a pedestrian area facing the Central Park Library and Museum, near the Goodman Dance Academy.
Adrian Riley has been selected as the Lead Artist for this tribute. Adrian brings a wealth of experience as an artist–designer who believes that something extraordinary happens when ‘ordinary’ people are invited to share in the creative process. Founder of Electric Angel, a multi-disciplinary creative studio specialising in design and art for the public and cultural sectors, Adrian is passionate about using image and typography to help people express their thoughts and hopes. This approach has led to collaborations with artists and poets on multiple projects as well as solo commissions often working with a wide variety of age groups and social situations, in particular with young people. Commissions for public artworks and design have come from the NHS, English Heritage, local authorities and The Church of England.