'The Dreamer' – Edinburgh, Scotland - Atlas Obscura

'The Dreamer'

Designed to illustrate two parts of the human psyche.  

45
164

This statuette happens to be dedicated to Dr. Winifred Rushforth, OBE. 

Situated in a green space in the center of Edinburgh University are several public works of art. One in particular involves two slabs of stone, each with a carved image of a woman facing one another. This is the work of British sculptor Chris Hall and is entitled, ‘The Dreamer.” The work was commissioned in the latter part of the 20th century and is meant to honor the distinguished Jungian psychoanalyst who was a graduate of Edinburgh University.

The work is meant to symbolize the two parts of the human psyche, the ego and the dreamer, thus illustrating the Jungian concept of the conscious personality and its shadow persona. Rushforth was heavily influenced by dream therapy. In 1997, the statue was unveiled by the then Prince of Wales, Prince Charles. 

Know Before You Go

George Square Gardens is open to the public, but maintains hours from 9:30 - to very late in the evenings. During the month of August, The Fringe Festival will take over the square and accessibility will be greatly hampered. 'The Dreamer' is situated in the very middle.

Community Contributors
Added by

December 6, 2022

Make an Edit Add Photos
In partnership with KAYAK

Plan Your Trip

From Around the Web