Nationally acclaimed artist Rick Kirby’s design can hardly be missed as you enter the main entrance to Alexandra Park. The design, a series of diving figures intertwined into an arc, takes pride of place in the lake and is high enough for boaters to row under and around it. To top it off underwater lighting has also been installed close to the sculpture for even greater dramatic effect.
The brief was to create an artwork, taking into consideration the outstanding features of the park’s natural beauty, historic landscaping, lakes, streams and wildlife. The artists were also to be aware of the ethos of the Greenway - promoting access to green spaces, healthy living, environmental awareness and alternatives to motorised transport - no mean feat.
The commission was advertised locally and nationally and attracted a large number of responses from across the globe. The panel of judges consisted of representatives from the Friends of Alexandra Park, Better Braybrooke, Custodians of the Park and the Hastings Young Persons Council. The opinions of the general public were also taken into consideration. After much deliberation a shortlist of six artists was drawn up and finally artist Rick Kirby's Continuum design was selected.
Councillor Jay Kramer, portfolio holder for leisure and culture, said:
"It was tough choosing from such wonderful entries but as a panel we felt the Continuum was most fitting and as you can see it really livens up the lake"
To mark the arrival of Continuum the park came alive with a fun-filled free boating evening on Friday, May 20. Councillor Jay Kramer and ward councillor Godfrey Daniel were there to enjoy the fun and officially opened the sculpture, cutting the customary red ribbon.
Cllr Kramer said:
"It’s great to see so many people have come to see the artwork lit up, it looks spectacular. Everyone has enjoyed themselves which makes all this hard work worthwhile. It’s thanks to the Arts Council of England South East, Hastings Greenway and the Southern Water Compensation Fund that all this was possible"
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This page last updated: 22/06/2005