Armagh city centre - invitation to tender for new public art commission
Date uploaded: November 19, 2009
Armagh City and District Council have embarked on a major public art programme for Armagh City Centre with many ambitious and innovative new projects already underway, including two new sculptures, ceramic wall art, railings and a miniature sculpture trail featuring 22 bronze works inspired by the angels and gargoyles of Armagh’s two Cathedrals.
The final phase of the current programme is the commissioning of a new artwork that is to be placed to the front of the award-winning Market Place Theatre – which celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2010. The Theatre’s modern entrance looks out onto the Market Square along with other more historical landmark buildings, such as the Church of Ireland Cathedral and the city Market House.
The Square has also recently benefited from a new Environmental Improvement scheme that has involved a complete re-landscaping of the area with new surfaces, steps, kerbing and street furniture. With a steep gradient, sloping from the Cathedral at the top of the hill, to the old Market House at the bottom of the hill, the square is a natural amphitheatre for public events and concerts and the local Council is eager to manage and promote the area as the cultural hub of the city.
Dawn Park, the Urban Regeneration Officer and Manager of the public art programme is keen for as many artists as possible to submit their ideas for the new commission.
‘This is the final commission in the current public art programme, and we’re hoping for some really inspiring proposals. This new sculpture will be located right at the heart of the city where thousands of tourists visit each year. Positioned right in front of the Market Place Theatre - one of Northern Ireland’s most striking modern buildings - and winner of several architectural awards, we’d like the new sculpture to make an impact on both locals and visitors and demonstrate Armagh as a City renowned for its traditional architecture and culture but delighted to embrace new ideas and influences.’
The public art commission opened on 16th November 2009, and closes to submissions on Friday 8th January 2010 at 4pm. The Council is encouraging local artists and those from further afield with experience of public art to respond to the exciting challenge of placing innovative and inspirational art at the heart of the City.