Stories can give Weymouth Gateway site project a new look (From Dorset Echo)

Stories can give Weymouth Gateway site project a new look

2:00pm Tuesday 12th February 2013 in News By James Tourgout

RESIDENTS have their last chance to have their say on new public art proposed for a Weymouth development.

Artist Andy Kirkby is asking residents to share any tales, stories or local history to help design the scheme at the Weymouth Gateway site, but suggestions have to be lodged by Friday, February 15.

The art scheme is being funded by fashion retailer New Look, with additional on-site installation support from Sainsbury’s.

A spokesman said: “Artists were invited to apply in November 2012 to design and create a new piece of public art, which will sit at the Weymouth Gateway site on Mercery Road.

“Andy Kirkby, who lives in Moreton, near Dorchester, fought off tough competition from 38 other UK and international artists, with five being shortlisted to attend interviews at New Look’s new offices on Mercery Road.

“Mr Kirkby is renowned for combining the classical and contemporary in his work, and recently created the Sea Road Public Art Trail in Boscombe.”

The artwork will be situated at the Mercery Road development in Weymouth, which includes a new Sainsbury’s, Whitbread restaurant and hotel, and New Look Support Centre.

Fashion retailer New Look is funding the whole project as part of its planning agreement, with Weymouth & Portland Borough Council guiding the scheme. Further support is being given by Sainsbury’s.

New Look staff moved into their new office at the end of November, with the new Whitbread restaurant and hotel expected to open in February and works on the new Sainsbury’s store due to begin shortly.

The artist’s brief says the commission must make a positive, innovative and integrated contribution to the regeneration of the area which will attract both residents and visitors. It must be accessible, easy to maintain, robust, durable and, as far as possible, sustainably produced.

The brief for the design is open and could include a stand-alone sculpture, land forms, street furniture or an audio/visual digital installation.

Any final design would need to be relevant to the Weymouth Gateway site and the borough’s historical, cultural and environmental characteristics.

A meeting has been organised for Andy to talk about his concept designs with the community and show how local stories have been incorporated into the work.

The concept designs will be made available for people to view at this session, which is open to all.

It will take place at the Famous Old Spa Pub, on Dorchester Road from 5pm to 7pm on Tuesday, February 26.

An blog has been set up at andykirkby.com where people can contribute stories online.

WHERE TO SEND YOUR IDEAS

THE engagement period for the project began on January 29 and will finish on February 15.

The public can tell their stories and tales by emailing sculptureak@gmail.com, or by writing to Alan Rogers, Bag 23, Weymouth College, Cranford Avenue, Weymouth DT4 7LQ.

They can also drop off ideas at:
Weymouth Library, Great George Street
WPBC Offices (main reception), North Quay
Famous Old Spa, 229 Dorchester Road, Radipole