Design a Landmark Public Art Competition

Arts Council England, South East is delighted to have supported the Design a Landmark competition. The response was extremely impressive both in terms of scale and quality and demonstrated the breadth of creative flair in and around Sheppey.

The three winning entries are notably different, but each present highly imaginative visual concepts that would leave a striking artistic impression on Sheppey's landscape.

Adam Walker, Development Officer 2012, Arts Counci

Winner Designs

Ethos -by Paula Tower

The Chalk  Sheep -by Mille and Cian Graham

The Rushenden Castle- by Simon Barker

'Ethos' by Paula Tower won the public vote, is a work suggesting a large scale installation involving a pair of hands and green space surrounding them. The idea was developed from the meaning of the word regeneration 'the activity of spiritual or physical renewal ', to produced an image which symbolized the idea of cohesive community .

"The sheep is a beautifully drawn naïve form. Somewhere between a cloud and an animal, it would be ideally placed to join land with sky on the horizon of Sheppey as you cross the Swale. What better introduction to Sheep way.

Simon Barkers fort for Rushenden Hill is an imaginative (and vandal proof) use of a contemporary security product to beautiful effect. It will catch the light from miles away and attract many people up its inner staircase to magnificent views across the estuary to Southend and west to the towers of London. 

 Both fort and sheep will be worthy and locally distinctive additions to the Sheppey landscape."

Stephen Turner, Public Artist and Design a Landmark Judge

“ The Chalk sheep idea is a great iconic feature for Sheppey.   If it could be sited on the hill behind Cowstead Farm, (where the Hei People were grouped) it would be easily visible as a 'Welcome' when driving over the new bridge onto the Island.

 The Rushenden castle should become a landmark of lasting interest in Rushenden if completed successfully. High points are always a feature in the landscape and I understand the castle will incorporate viewing points for the public - may be a good site to enjoy our famous sunsets. The construction material , Stainless steal  has been chosen to catch the light, adding to the visual appeal.”

Susan Harris, Queenborough Resident and Design a Landmark Judge

Project History
This project aimed to open out the submission for proposals to absolutely everyone, local artists, young people, whoever has good idea for a piece of public art for Queenborough & Rushenden. Workshops were  lead by experienced artists to help people present their ideas, with the use of graphic drawing, models and computer imagery. Materials will be provided to get you started, but bring your own stuff if think it might become useful.

All 37  ideas were exhibited throughout February and March in the Castle Gallery for the public to see. The public were invited to come a vote to choose the first winner. Then a select committee made of local representative and members of the Arts Council will then choose two winners under different themed categories.

The 3 winners will be awarded a small grant of £500 each to develop their idea with the help of an engineer and financial advisory group.

The Castle Gallery, 12a Woodhall Terrace, Queenborough, ME11 5AH

Workshops at Queenborough First School