Project artists have worked with a variety of groups across Belfast to explore different concepts of environment both global and local. They looked at identity and the communities’ relationship within their own areas. The project hopes to establish the importance of diverse communities needing to support each other for a healthy social environment whilst recognising that the same is required for the sustainability of our natural environment.
The sculpture is being constructed from 12 components that make up a 2.4 meter diameter sphere Ten ‘flowers’ of equal size have been developed by ten diverse community groups across Belfast. These groups include; under and over 16, older people’s, Irish language, disability, ethic minority, travelers and groups from socially deprived areas. Each of the groups developed relief imagery in clay on identical flower templates that will be cast in aluminum and come together as the final piece.
The top of the sphere will have a slightly recessed structure in the shape of the flower. This inset structure will house a membrane and contain planted sedums/alpines that will flower and add colour in different seasons and will be designed to retain the necessary amount of water needed to maintain growth. The petal area at the base will support the installation of the structure and allow for additional planting.
At present we are finishing the culmination of two year’s project work and fabrication with our Belfast Bloom sculpture. Landmarks 2011-2012 starts fresh with an initial phase bringing project artists and groups together for the first time. Each group/project artist will have a small budget to produce a piece of art in public for their immediate location/community/school.
This year’s groups include:
- First Step Centre, Belfast
- St Luke’s Family Centre Twinbrook, Dunmurry
- REACT (Reconciliation, Education and Community Training), Armagh
- Alzheimer’s Society, Ballynahinch Group
Cross Community project involving;
- St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre, Belfast
- Willowfield Parish Community Association, Belfast