The Double Fantasy Sculpture in Bermuda honors John Lennon’s final burst of creativity. Standing nine feet tall, this steel monument is located at the Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art in the Bermuda Botanical Gardens, just a mile south of Hamilton. Notably, it marks the spot where Lennon completed over 20 songs during the summer of 1980.
History of the Double Fantasy Sculpture
On June 21, 2012, the statue was officially unveiled. The project began with Tom Butterfield, founder of the Masterworks Museum, and Bermudian promoter Tony Brannon. Yoko Ono approved the idea, further cementing its connection to Lennon’s legacy. Bermudian artist Graham Foster designed the sculpture to reflect Lennon’s experience in Bermuda. As a result, the work captures the spirit of his time on the island.
Symbolism and Structure
The monument is built from durable Core-ten steel. It weighs around 2,000 pounds and rises approximately nine feet in height. Each element of the sculpture holds symbolic meaning:
- Lennon’s silhouette with round glasses – an iconic image recognized worldwide
- Guitar outline – a tribute to his musical legacy
- Doves – symbolizing peace and harmony
- Freesia blooms – inspired by the “Double Fantasy” flower Lennon admired
Interestingly, the sculpture contains no written inscriptions. Its visual elements encourage personal interpretation, echoing Lennon’s artistic values.
Location and Accessibility
The sculpture stands at 169 South Road, Paget Parish, beside Camden House. Nestled in the Bermuda Botanical Gardens, this spot offers a direct connection to Lennon’s time in June and July 1980. During spring, freesias bloom around the statue, enhancing its symbolic presence.
Events and Cultural Significance
Today, the Double Fantasy Sculpture serves as a cultural touchstone in Bermuda. Moreover, it attracts Beatles fans and music lovers from around the world. Annual events that celebrate Lennon’s influence include:
- Tribute concerts every September 21 on the International Day of Peace
- Releases of tribute albums recorded by Bermudian musicians
- Gatherings on October 9 and November 17, marking Lennon’s birthday and the album’s release
In addition, the sculpture supports local tourism and enriches the island’s cultural offerings. Businesses in Hamilton benefit from the steady stream of visitors year-round.
Did You Know?
- Some people debate whether Lennon actually saw a freesia or a hibiscus flower.
- Yoko Ono sent a special video message for the unveiling event from New York.
- Local companies volunteered their equipment to install the heavy sculpture safely.
- The museum hosts free exhibitions of Lennon’s original artwork and handwritten lyrics each year.
How to Visit the Double Fantasy Sculpture
- By bus: Use routes 1, 2, or 7 from Hamilton. Get off at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and walk five minutes south on South Road.
- By taxi: Ask for “Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art, Botanical Gardens.”
- On foot: Enjoy a 20-minute walk from Front Street in Hamilton along scenic South Road.
- Landmarks: Look for Camden House and the museum entrance—they’re visible from the main road.
The Double Fantasy Sculpture offers more than visual beauty. It invites reflection on Lennon’s final months, his return to music, and his lifelong message of peace. Ultimately, visiting this monument in Bermuda provides fans with a deep connection to a powerful chapter in John Lennon’s story.
