Public Space Sculpture in Watlington - opportunity for sculptors

SPINE PROJECT- WATLINGTON

Please see the information below about this public sculpture opportunity received via the Henley Arts Trail. Note the deadline for expressions of interest in 30th June. Reply to artspinewatlington@gmail.com if interested.

Brief for local artists

A Public Art initiative for the town

Funded through money from the new housing developments, this project is aimed at integrating the new estates with the town centre while enhancing the town’s visual appeal and encouraging community connections.

The Spine will consist of a series of sculpted installations placed along a trail running from the new housing to the Town Hall and Car Park. The five pieces being completed by lead artist Joseph Hillier will be approximately 80cms high, and mounted on 1 metre high tubular corten steel plinths. His approach will blend artistic excellence with community involvement, a core aim of the project.

Inspired by the history, environment and the community of Watlington the trail will provide a new opportunity for residents and visitors to explore the town in a fresh and engaging way.

Joseph Hillier, born in Cornwall in 1974, brings a wealth of experience to the project. His selection was unanimous amongst the Steering Group which includes Parish Councillors and local artists. An award-winning sculptor with a Masters in Fine Art from Tulane University and a fellow of the Royal British Society of Sculptors, he has an extensive background in making art for public spaces over the last twenty years.

Local artists are invited to submit proposals for two additional plinths which will be provided by Joseph. Funding is in place to pay £5000 to each winning artist for the production of their proposals. Joseph will offer advice and mentoring should it be required, and visiting his studio in the North East would also be an option.

The themes of strong community, ancient and recent history and connectedness to the landscape and environment should be addressed by the local artist applications. The two pieces should be the artists’ response to the town and environment, they do not need to relate to Josephs work in any other way. The pieces proposed need to be of an appropriate scale and robust enough to withstand wind and weather. They should be ready for installation along with Joseph’s pieces in April 2026.

All final locations are yet to be confirmed as planning permission is required – however it is envisaged that the local artist pieces will be located in Mansle Gardens and/or the Paddock.

An independent panel, separate from the Parish Council Steering Group will be formed to judge the local submissions and decide upon the winners.

The deadline for expressions of interest is June 30th 2025

A short list will be drawn up in July, and it is expected that interviews will take place later July and August and a final selection will be made by early September.

If you wish to be considered please contact artspinewatlington@gmail.com including :

• Examples of any relevant previous work

• Your artists statement

• An indication of your idea to fulfil the brief

Please email the above as one pdf. There is no need to supply a fully designed idea at this stage.

Thank-you.