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Your Art on Kettering's Heritage Roof!
6 Dec
Summary
- Community members can paint tiles for a £7m roof repair.
- Painted tiles will be permanently laid facing down on Cornerstone.
- The project commemorates 121 years since the library's opening.
The Cornerstone building, housing Kettering Library and Art Gallery, suffered damage from heavy rain in 2023, necessitating a significant £7m roof repair. Work began in March, with the distinctive Collyweston slate tiles being laid from October onwards. As part of this restoration, a unique 'Tag-A-Tile' event was held, allowing members of the public to personalize 121 slate tiles.
These personalized tiles, roughly postcard-sized, are being decorated with names and artwork. Although hidden from view when laid face down on the roof, each contributor will know the exact location of their tile. This initiative aims to embed a piece of the community into the building's fabric, preserving it for future generations and celebrating 121 years of the library's service.
The project is also creating a historical record, with photos of each tile to be featured in a future exhibition at the Alfred East Gallery. The library has been temporarily relocated, and the entire restoration project is anticipated to conclude by August 2026, ensuring the Grade II listed building is protected for years to come.
