BRIT Awards 2026 Statue Design Unveiled with Sentimental Manchester Tribute
The BRIT Awards 2026 is set to return with a spectacular evening of glamorous red carpet fashion, prestigious awards, and unforgettable performances. However, the ultimate prize on every music artist's mind remains the coveted BRITs statue itself. This year, the award takes on a deeply sentimental meaning, reflecting its new host city and the values it represents.
Meet the Designer: Matthew Williamson Takes the Creative Reins
For the 2026 edition, the design responsibility has been entrusted to acclaimed British fashion and interior designer Matthew Williamson. Known for his bold use of colors and prints across various creative disciplines, Williamson brings his distinctive aesthetic to the BRIT Award. He follows in the footsteps of previous illustrious designers such as Dame Vivienne Westwood, Sir Peter Blake, and Dame Tracey Emin.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the project, Williamson stated: "Following in the footsteps of great designers and artists before me, it’s an honour and a career highlight to design the 2026 BRITs trophy. The BRITs is an event I've watched since childhood, and I’m still so immersed in it to this day. I've always looked at it in awe and wonder, so to even be offered this opportunity feels like a real milestone moment."
Symbolism and Meaning Behind the 2026 Statue
In a historic first, the BRIT Awards will be held outside London at the Manchester Co Op Arena. As a native of Manchester, Williamson aimed to honor the city's industrial heritage in his design. The statue is crafted from a chic amber-toned resin, deliberately resembling the golden honey of a worker bee—a symbol deeply associated with Manchester, representing its pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution.
Williamson elaborated: "I wanted to create something timeless and stylish that each recipient would feel proud to own and display. Cast in a chic amber toned resin, the statue resembles the golden honey of a worker bee, Manchester‘s logo symbolising the city's role during the Industrial Revolution and so much more. This spirit to work hard and be part of the essential fabric of the nation still resonates with me today."
Additionally, the designer incorporated a globe as the base of the statue, symbolizing the global recognition and achievement that winners experience upon receiving the award. This thoughtful detail adds a layer of personal significance, making the trophy not just a prize but a meaningful keepsake for artists.
Key Details and Highlights
- Designer: Matthew Williamson, a renowned British fashion and interior designer.
- Material: Amber-toned resin chosen for its visual appeal and symbolic connection to Manchester.
- Symbolism: Worker bee imagery reflects Manchester's industrial history and community spirit.
- Innovation: Globe base represents the worldwide acclaim associated with winning a BRIT Award.
- Event Location: First time hosted in Manchester at the Co Op Arena, marking a significant shift from London.
The BRIT Awards 2026 promises to be a memorable celebration, with this new statue design adding a unique and heartfelt touch to the proceedings. As artists and fans alike anticipate the event, the focus on heritage, creativity, and achievement shines through in every detail of the award.
