PASW Regional Newsletter: Spring 2000
New Celtic Cross at Saltash
The plans for a New Celtic Cross for the Cornish Millennium at Saltash in Cornwall has selected local artist Simon Thomas. Raised in South Devon and trained at Plymouth College of Art, he secured the commission to erect a 40' high contemporary sculpture at Saltash, the Gateway to Cornwall. His design was unanimously selected from a shortlist of four by a panel of nine representatives from arts, business and the community, following extensive public consultation.
"I deliberately set out to achieve a design that would appeal to secular as well as Christian interests" Simon said. "The emphasis in the Cross is the acceleration of energy, or inspiration, out of the earth and into the sky".
The commission - to design a gateway piece that was recognisably derived from the ancient Cornish Celtic cross, but which looked forward to the future, was advertised extensively nationally and attracted 81 applications from all over the world. This community led project, managed by Saltash Festival 2000, a local community group, is funded by the Arts Council via the Millennium Festival fund, by the local authorities, and by various private sector organisations who are donating support in kind, including the provision of the land by Granada. The Cross will be fabricated locally from steel faced with copper.
The next phase will be the finalisation of the design, together with the associated landscaping and visitors centre, and the preparation of planning applications and tenders. If all goes well, the Cross could be in place by autumn 2000. An extensive education programme - involving the chosen artist is also planned.
Pip Miller, Project Manager
Tel: 01752 847623