Hello Hengrove: feed back on Bristol’s first devolved public art project
Date uploaded: June 3, 2013
Residents of Hengrove are being urged to give their feedback on Bristol’s first public art programme where funds have been devolved to the local community.
The Future Perfect project’s theme is a “fantastical future which embraces extraordinary possibilities and dreams”, according to promoters, and was made possible through Section 106 funds raised from development programmes in the area.
An Art Steering Group made up from local groups has been created to advise the Neighbourhood Partnership about how the funds should be spent, which artists are selected and how the programme is run.
Three artists – David Thorpe, Matt Stokes and Nils Norman – have been working with people in Hengrove to develop ideas for the art programme, ranging from gateways, play equipment, community meeting places and a film about the area.
Their plans have been unveiled in a display at Whitchurch Library and on the Future Perfect blog.
This is the first time public arts cash has been devolved to a Neighbourhood Partnership, allowing the local community a direct say in how the programme is shaped.
The artists’ ideas include:
- David Thorpe: Permanent Commission – proposing to create a working orchard on Whitchurch Green which will serve as a meeting place for the community.
- Nils Norman: Green Commission – proposing to design and make a new theatre curtain for Hengrove Community Centre inspired by the history of the area and local people’s stories. He is also proposing a specially-designed paving addition to the new gate, pathways and drainage system on Hengrove Park at the entrance to the St Giles Estate to improve access for pedestrians, buggies and wheelchair users.
- Matt Stokes: Temporary Commission – temporary commission will be created in collaboration with local residents, students, organisations and local groups and will take the form of a film including elements of Hengrove’s history with an accompanying music soundtrack, sited on Hengrove Park inside a shipping container.
The Future Perfect ‘Archive of Ideas’ display, with photos and information about the artist proposals, will be installed in Whitchurch Library until Monday, June 21st.
