The iconic superhero was spotted flying over the capital in what is the UK’s highest ever public sculpture
Superman takes flight over The Shard in London
Superhero buffs might have thought they’d been whisked off to a parallel universe, as the Man of Steel was seen soaring over London in what’s being hailed as the UK’s highest public sculpture.
Londoners craning their necks towards the Shard would have caught sight of an eerily lifelike rendition of the iconic superhero, perched more than 300 metres above ground at the top of the iconic landmark.
It marks a first for the capital’s tallest building. The imposing figure measured a whopping 11 feet in height and tipped the scales at over 120kg. Crafted from fibreglass using ECO resin, it was secured to the Shard with steel cables.
Superman soars above London as Daily Planet helicopters circle the skyscraper(Image: PinPep)
The impressive sculpture took a whopping four months to craft, with over 20 dedicated individuals clocking in a collective 2,000 hours to ensure it was spot on.
David Corenswet, the star currently donning the Superman cape, was 3D scanned during production to achieve the perfect superhero silhouette.
James Gunn, the brains behind Superman and Co-Chairman of DC Studios, was gobsmacked by the spectacle, stating: “To see such a realistic depiction of our Superman displayed on the top of The Shard is mind-blowing.”
He added, “Bringing one of cinema’s greatest heroes to life for the new film has been the adventure of a lifetime.
“And it’s a real honour to see that journey continue in this way long after we wrapped, as we promote the film around the world. This will take some beating, London.”
The stunt celebrates the release of the new Superman movie out on the 11th of July(Image: PinPep)
The statue captures Superman in a dynamic pose, one leg bent and head looking down, as if he’s keeping a watchful eye over the capital.
Londoners are being urged to ‘Look Up’ – the catchphrase of the new flick – to catch sight of the hovering hero.
Weather permitting, the colossal Superman can be spotted from up to 40 miles away, anchored to Western Europe’s tallest building.
Its intricate welded steel framework was meticulously assembled to mark the launch of the new ‘Superman’ movie, hitting screens on Friday, July 11.
Daniel Fulbrook, head honcho of marketing for Real Estate Management and asset manager of The Shard, commented: “Superman has stood as a symbol of hope and heroism for generations – so it feels only fitting that he now watches over London from the top of one of its most iconic landmarks.
“To see him suspended within The Shard’s spire is truly surreal. We’re incredibly proud to help bring this legendary figure to life in such a bold and breathtaking way.”
Those keen to catch a glimpse of Superman at the best vantage points for clear views today (Tuesday 1 July) should make their way to Borough Market, Sumner Street (SE1 9HZ), Southwark Bridge, or Stoney St (SE1 9AF).