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Art Trail Links Old and New Watlington
10 Jan
Summary
- Seven sculptures will connect Watlington's historic center and new developments.
- Five large clay busts by Joseph Hillier and two local artist works are planned.
- The ArtSpine Project aims to foster community by linking town sections.
Seven sculptures are set to enhance the connection between Watlington's historic center and its expanding new developments. South Oxfordshire District Council granted planning permission in November for the ArtSpine Project, which will feature five large clay busts by acclaimed sculptor Joseph Hillier and two pieces by local artists along a designated walking route.
Funded by developer contributions, the project has a budget of approximately £125,000 dedicated solely to public art. Hillier's busts, each about a meter high, are inspired by Watlington's brick architecture, local landscapes like yew forests, and the town's community spirit. These artworks are anticipated to be installed in the summer, enriching the visual landscape.
The ArtSpine Project aims to create a tangible link between the old and new sections of Watlington, fostering a cohesive community. After considering resident feedback, two initially proposed locations, the Town Hall and the area in front of St. Leonard's Church, were withdrawn. The sculptures will now be situated across Hill Road Car Park, The Paddock, Mansle Gardens, Asgard Green, and Willow Close footpath.
