Key Highlights
- A nude organist statue of Monty Python’s Terry Jones will be unveiled in his home town of Colwyn Bay next April.
- The comic actor and writer died from a rare form of dementia in 2020, leaving behind ideas for a fitting tribute.
- A Python episode featured the recurring character of Jones as the nude organist in 1972.
- Comedy fans raised £120,000 to fund the statue project within six months.
The Humorous Tribute to Terry Jones: A Colwyn Bay Legacy
Nick Elphick, a sculptor from Wales, has been entrusted with the monumental task of bringing to life the nude organist statue that will honor Terry Jones, the late comic actor and writer. This project is part of an ongoing tribute to the man who was not only a core member of Monty Python but also a beloved figure in Colwyn Bay, where he spent his early years.
The statue, unveiled “3 days ago,” presents Terry as the organist, nude apart from a flapping tie and ‘exploded’ hair, grinning as he strikes a classic pose. This tribute is a nod to Jones’s unique sense of humor and his role in Monty Python’s Flying Circus.
A Tribute Rooted in Comedy
The idea for the statue emerged from a recurring character in a Python episode that first appeared in 1972, where Terry Jones played himself as the nude organist. This character has since become an iconic part of Monty Python’s legacy and serves as a symbol of their unconventional approach to comedy.
Michael Palin, Jones’s lifelong friend, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: “Terry always insisted on doing his own stunts, and I think that sitting stark naked (apart from a tie) on Colwyn Bay promenade, in all weathers, is the ultimate tribute to the lengths he was always prepared to go to for comedy.” This statement underscores Jones’s dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing the absurd.
Community Involvement and Financial Support
The statue appeal has been a community-driven effort. Comedy fans from across the world raised £120,000 in just six months, demonstrating the widespread admiration for Terry Jones’s work and personality. The project was conceived by Nick Elphick after consultation with Michael Palin, Terry Gilliam, Jones’s family, and local groups.
Elphick also engaged with Jones’s daughter, Sally, to incorporate personal elements into the statue.
They went through his archive, including handwritten notes, drawings, and sketches, to ensure that every detail would reflect both the man and his multi-faceted career. The sculptor’s dedication is evident in his commitment to creating a tribute that truly captures Terry Jones’s essence.
A Lasting Legacy
The unveiling of the statue on the seafront of Colwyn Bay next April will serve as a lasting testament to Terry Jones’s contributions to comedy and his deep connection to his hometown. Monty Python star Graham Chapman, who worked closely with Jones on their final film “Absolutely Anything,” added: “Since Terry never won ‘Rear of the Year’ I think his posterior preserved for posterity in Colwyn Bay seems right.” This statement highlights the enduring impact of Jones’s work and the unique bond he shared with his hometown.
As the statue takes shape, it stands as a testament to the power of comedy and the lasting legacy left behind by Terry Jones. It will not only honor his memory but also remind future generations of the innovative spirit that defined Monty Python and its enduring impact on popular culture. The unveiling of this statue is more than just an artistic endeavor; it is a celebration of a life well-lived and a career filled with laughter, creativity, and unorthodox humor.
