23.05.2006
Art on the Downs, an innovative arts project is building on the success of last year's Art in the Woods project. Involving University of Brighton students, women from the New Moulsecoomb Art Group and the National Trust, the aim is to build a spiral celtic barrow on a local ancient quarry site.
Finishing on 26 May there will be a chance to view the work in progress between 10am and 2pm on that day or meet the people involved when Karen Norquay, Head of the School of Arts & Communication, University of Brighton, gives out certificates to participants at 6.30pm.
The project is one of many community focused projects funded by the University of Brighton's Community University Partnership Programme (www.cupp.org.uk) which helps set up projects that bring the university and local communities closer together.
Alice Fox from the university's School of Arts and Architecture said: "The aim of the arts project is to strengthen the university's links with the local community in Moulsecoomb as well as giving art students experience of working on community arts projects."
The 14 students and nine local women have only four days to complete the sculpture using nothing but the natural materials available on site at the quarry on National Trust owned Newtimber Hill near Saddlescombe Farm, Saddlescombe Road, Devils Dyke. The site is about one mile from last year's Art in the Woods Giant sculpture, part of a vision of building a natural sculpture trail across Sussex Countryside. To continue the sculpture trial the arts project will be seeking new funding for 2007.
Local sculptor and community art worker, Sue Nunn said: "This project gives parents on the estate a rare opportunity to practise public art skills in a rural setting with a diverse group of students. Last year many friendships were made and families started to visit National Trust land for pleasure and to see their work."
The National Trusts aims to encourage people who may associate them with 'dusty old houses' to explore and enjoy their land. National Trust Ranger, Graham Welfare said: “The National Trust wants to see more people from all communities enjoying the countryside in Sussex."
For further information or an interview with Alice Fox,
University of Brighton's School of Arts and Architecture contact:
Fiona Edwards, Cupp
f.c.a.edwards@brighton.ac.uk or
tel: 01273 272 592
Location:
Map Ref: TQ70 117
Roadside Parking by Saddlescombe Farm
Public Access on to Newtimber Hill
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton, 01273 643022
