**Renowned Sculptor Honours Dame Judi Dench With Live Bust Creation for Charity**
In a remarkable display of artistic talent and philanthropy, acclaimed royal sculptor Frances Segelman stunned audiences in London as she crafted a bust of celebrated actress Dame Judi Dench before a live audience. The event, held at the prestigious Claridge’s hotel, brought together a host of distinguished guests from both the arts and healthcare sectors, all movingly united by their commitment to supporting lymphoedema research.
Segelman’s reputation precedes her; she has previously sculpted notable members of the Royal Family, including His Majesty King Charles and the late Queen Elizabeth II. This latest project saw her recreate the features of Dame Judi Dench in front of 200 spectators, completing most of the likeness in a mere two hours – an astonishing feat in the art world.
The charitable occasion served two primary purposes: it marked the 90th birthday and distinguished career of Dame Judi Dench, and, crucially, it sought to raise both funding and awareness for the Lymphoedema Research Fund (LRF) at St George’s Hospital Charity. Lymphoedema, as described by the NHS, is a chronic disorder leading to painful swelling, most commonly in the arms or legs, usually following cancer-related operations that include removal of lymph nodes.
Frances Segelman reflected on the importance of raising the profile of lymphoedema-related issues, stating that while the condition affects thousands, public comprehension is lacking. “There is little awareness of the scale of the problem – so many endure severe swelling after cancer surgery, yet a cure remains elusive,” she commented. She recounted her motivation to participate, owing much to her attendance at a previous similar event where she was deeply moved by the number of young people, including teenagers, visibly afflicted by the condition. “It was incredibly sad to see so many young people suffering. I felt compelled to help,” she recalled.
Personal experience also played a part in her engagement with the cause. Segelman shared that her late husband, Sir Jack Petchey, had himself struggled with lymphoedema in his later years. “He didn’t have cancer, but he suffered terribly from swollen legs, something older people experience far too often. It dramatically impacts their mobility and standard of living.”
The evening’s proceedings were overseen by Gemma Levine, a renowned photographer and a tireless charity ambassador who herself was diagnosed with lymphoedema 15 years ago. Levine’s longstanding friendship with Dame Judi Dench lent a particularly personal touch to the event. Ahead of the bust’s creation, Levine remarked upon Dench’s invaluable cultural contribution, stating that it was only fitting to honour her achievements in a manner that also benefits an underfunded area of medical research.
Attendees at Claridge’s were treated not only to the rare privilege of watching a work of art emerge in real time, but also to a heartfelt celebration of community, resilience, and generosity. Segelman described her live sculpting process as “magical,” noting the intense pace and exhilaration involved. “It’s frantic, yet somehow you capture the essence of the person,” she said. “Achieving a true likeness in just two hours is no small challenge, but something extraordinary happens in those moments.”
After the initial creation was completed before the audience, Segelman planned to take the bust back to her studio, where she would prepare the finished casting in bronze. Once finalised, the sculpture will be auctioned off to raise further funds for the Lymphoedema Research Fund, amplifying the impact of the evening.
Thanks to an outpouring of support from those in attendance, the event is forecast to raise over £40,000 for the charity. This significant sum will support advances in the diagnosis and treatment of lymphoedema and provide much-needed hope to those living with the condition.
In her closing remarks, Levine expressed heartfelt gratitude to all involved: “Dame Judi has given so much to the world through her art,” she said. “To honour her while helping a cause so close to my heart is truly special. I am overwhelmed by the kindness of everyone here.”
The night not only paid tribute to one of the UK’s most beloved actresses, but also shone a light on an often overlooked medical challenge, exemplifying how art and compassion can intersect to bring about meaningful change.