News / public art
New artwork on Centre to ‘celebrate diverse heritage and vibrant communities’
A new largescale piece of public art where the fountains currently are on the Centre hopes to be “a centrepiece of the transformation of the space into a vibrant, inclusive hub”.
The collaborative artwork by Bristol artist Oshii has been created in partnership with Bristol Legacy Foundation and “will celebrate the city’s diverse heritage and vibrant communities” as part of the transformation of the Centre in early 2025.
It is part of the Bristol Legacy Foundation’s work to create a permanent memorial at the Cascade Steps to the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans and Bristol’s African heritage communities.
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The artwork has yet to be finished and public events are due to shape its final design.
With a working title of Common Ground, Oshii’s artwork aims to transform the surface of the Centre “with vibrant colours, playful shapes and symbolic motifs that celebrate Bristol’s multicultural identity and historic harbour”.
It will be designed to be “interactive and engaging”, including elements such as games and pollinator-friendly planting.
The Centre is built on top of St Augustine’s Trench where the River Frome was re-routed in the 13th century – photo: Martin Booth
Chair of Bristol Legacy Foundation, former deputy mayor Asher Craig, said: “Oshii’s artwork has the potential to become a defining feature of the Centre Promenade and we want it to reflect the diversity and creativity of Bristol.
“We have an opportunity to create a landmark experience to welcome people to the heart of the city with an artwork that is reflective of the city’s diverse communities and rich culture.”
Vicky Lee, director of Bristol City Centre BID, added: “We’re looking forward to hearing the vision that all the city’s stakeholders have for this underutilised space at the heart of the city.
“The project aims to reflect the history, values and creative energy of Bristol and the engagement sessions will provide a platform for voices from across the city to contribute.”
A community conversation and art workshop with Oshii is taking place at the Bristol Beacon on December 13 from 12.30pm to 4.30pm. For more information, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/community-conversation-art-workshop-with-oshii-tickets-1079175646409
Main photo: Plaster
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