Published: Wednesday, 18th October 2023
Pupils from Eastgate Academy and St Michael’s CofE Academy have been working on ideas for two art installations that will form part of the Town Deal Rail to River project.
They took part in a workshop with artists Annabel McCourt and Adrian Riley to help develop thought-provoking artworks that enhance the connection between they railway station and the river, and also raise awareness of the potential impact of climate change on the town.
Vicky Etheridge, Discover King’s Lynn BID Manager, added:
“It's great to see this project underway and capturing the imagination of children. We're really pleased to have Adrian and Annabel delivering this exciting piece of work for us, they have a depth of experience creating and delivering art for the public realm.
“The response to the invitation to tender for this work was brilliant - a wide range of ideas and styles from a diverse pool of artists, it was a privilege to be part of the selection process. Adrian and Annabel stood out for their passion, abundance of energy and variety so I’m really looking forward to seeing the final pieces installed.”
Cllr Jim Moriarty, cabinet member for development and regeneration, said:
“Young people are the future of this area and it’s fantastic to see them getting involved in this project, which celebrates history, explores the present and makes us think about the future.
“The artworks will provide a visual welcome for visitors and a welcome home for residents, in a way that shows why King’s Lynn is special and why we need to protect its future.
“I can’t wait to see the final result!”
Annabel and Adrian were selected after a successful project call at the end of last year, to which 24 artists responded. Interviews were held in March and the selection panel unanimously agreed that the provided the most exciting, relevant and intriguing artwork for the Rail to River route. The panel were particularly impressed with their extensive experience of public art projects and engagement with young people as part of the process.
The artworks are based on the legend of The Brotherhood of the Grey Goose Feather, a story of Fens-dwellers who carried a split goose feather, entitling them to help and protection in times of trouble.
A secret password that accompanied the feather has been lost in time but it is hoped that this can be restored through the work with young people…
The final artworks will be displayed outside the station and St James swimming pool.
Artist Annabel McCourt said:
“We are particularly delighted that the young people of King’s Lynn are playing a vital role in re-establishing the tradition of the grey goose feather for a whole new generation.
“Their secret code will unlock a warm welcome to visitors arriving at the train station and ensure that a new-found friendship will accompany them on their way home. By becoming public artists, the code-breakers and code-makers of Eastgate and St Michael’s will ensure that this legacy lives on; in King’s Lynn and (hopefully) the rest of the world!”
The project forms ‘Rail to River’ public realm project as part of the Town Deal for King’s Lynn, specifically the Town Investment Plan objective to support a repurposed town centre, with new experiences and a high-quality residential and leisure offer in the heart of this historic town.