Princes William and Henry commissioned sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley to design the statue of their mother three years ago, on the 20th anniversary of her tragic 1997 death. The statue’s progress has been delayed as a result of the pandemic, though the royal brothers have said that the statue will be installed on July 1, 2021, the date that would have been Princess Diana’s 60th birthday.
A statement issued by Kensington Palace said that the statue is meant to “recognize [Princess Diana’s] positive impact in the UK and around the world,” and that “the princes hope that the statue will help all those who visit Kensington Palace to reflect on their mother’s life and her legacy.”
Princess Diana died in an automobile accident in 1997, when William and Harry were 15 and 12 years old, respectively. During her life, Diana made great strides for positive social impact, helping children and youth as well as advocating for people affected with illnesses including HIV/AIDS, cancer and mental illness
This joint announcement from princes William and Harry is a rare occurrence, particularly since Harry and his family made the decision earlier this year to step away from their royal duties.