Public shape Fosse Park art
ARTISTS, schools and community groups are being invited to help create a range of public art installations at the extension to Fosse Park.
The public will help shape the final design of the West Terrace area of the development, which will include a giant graphic wall and floor space along with a play area.
Before the lockdown, creative workshops have been held with Brockington College, Danemill Primary School and Croft Happy Circle, a social group for over-55s.
Participants were asked to complete a range of activities to inspire the artwork, including inviting children to design their dream playground, and asking the older group to share their experiences and memories of the area.
Their input will form the inspiration for the final designs.
Mike Bell, senior asset manager at The Crown Estate, which owns the site, said: “Fosse Park has been a key part of many people’s lives over the past three decades, and many have stories to tell about their visits and about the area more generally. It was amazing to hear the stories from older people which bring the heritage to life, as well as hear ideas from children about what they want to see in the future.
“I’m excited to see how their inspiration will feature within the final designs for the graphic wall and play area.”
Sadie Batstone, head teacher at Brockington College, said: “The children loved getting involved with the workshops and it’s amazing to think each person’s contribution will influence the final designs.
“It was also extremely valuable for our students to get to work with the professional artists.
“Hopefully, it might inspire some of them to take up a career in art themselves.”
Diane Wing, club leader at Croft Happy Circle, said: “It was lovely to see our members so engaged with the workshops and the artists were absolutely brilliant.
“We support older people in the local area and the session gave them a real chance to reflect on our community and channel their creativity.
“It’s wonderful to think this is helping to create something that will be seen and enjoyed at Fosse Park for years to come.”
The £168 million transformation will see the addition of Food Central and Fosse Park West. The redevelopment will create a total of 140,000 sqft of retail and restaurant space.