Local artist, Paul Channing is involving the Wickwar community in the public art he is creating in the village.
The artist is making four print maker benches for Linden Homes’ Saxon Gate development, which people will be able to use to create art. Similar to the artistic tradition of brass rubbing, anyone will be able to take a piece of paper and a crayon and produce an instant artwork.
The seats will be covered in imagery that’s been sourced from the community and will reference many aspects of the village – from its history and architecture to its ecology and people.
Paul Channing commented: “I had the idea after my son became obsessed with making rubbings following a trip to the park with some crayons, I think every object in our house was explored for undiscovered creative opportunities!
“I wanted to make sure the imagery we used on the print maker benches was symbolic of the area so I spoke to the local community and researched a breadth of topics. The historical pubs in Wickwar have painted signs which lead me to consider these small paintings mounted in their countryside locations. These signs are small unique artworks with imagery referencing local history, such as the archer at The Buthay Inn.
“I met with parish councillors, Wickwar environmental action group, local residents and the children of pearl and jet class at Alexander Hosea primary school, who all came up with some fantastic ideas! We explored pattern and texture with the pupils, through rubbings and collage, before coming up with designs which could be cut into the benches.”
The seats have been made with a combination of stacked oak sleepers and stainless steel backs, set at different levels for children and adults to sit on – and to make it easier to work on when producing artwork.
Sales and marketing director, Sue Scholfield commented: “It’s wonderful to admire art, especially with a local link, but I love how this encourages the community – no matter your age – to get creative. It’s such a fantastic concept; I look forward to seeing the benches in situ and hope everyone enjoys using them.”
This autumn the four benches will be placed in various positions adjacent to the footpath that runs throughout the development.
Linden Homes supports many community initiatives near to its developments and is creating homes locally at Saxon Gate. There is just one property remaining at the development of 90 homes, which is located on the southern edge of Wickwar, off Sodbury Road and Horwood Lane. For more details call 01454 537110 or visit www.lindenhomes.co.uk
For further information on Paul Channing and his work visit www.pchanning.design
