TAUNTON, U.K. - Jan. 15, 2020 - Taunton's it is known to many as no more than a junction on the motorway, not as a place to visit. It is no longer a destination town.

Arts Taunton wants to help change that. As part of its mission to bring genuine public benefit to Taunton through culture it is hoping to commission a new public artwork for Taunton.

The artwork will be visible as part of distant views and add a contemporary accent to a skyline. The artwork on Creechbarrow Hill will be a clear signal from this generation of Taunton's renewed ambition and self-confidence.

The hill forms part of the site of the UK Hydrographic Office (UKHO), a division of the Ministry of Defence. Its directors are supportive of and the Ministry of Defence, as site owners, have also given provisional approval.

Consultation will be at the heart of the project to create and install the artwork. Preliminary views from local residents have already been sought through a series of events.

Arts Taunton will be involving local people in the project as it progresses, encouraging them to contribute their own ideas. When the artwork finally rises on Creechbarrow Hill it will carry powerful local meaning and have widespread support.

Funding
Funding will be sought in two phases. The first phase will cover all steps leading to the selection of a design. The second will cover the costs of production and installation. It is intended that the money should be raised from grant-giving bodies, foundations, philanthropic corporations and individuals.

Somerset West and Taunton Council pledges support
The Council will NOT be funding ArtsTaunton's mission. However Cllr Federica Smith Roberts, Leader of SWT, said:

"I am fully supportive of Arts Taunton and the superb work they are doing to promote the arts and culture. The public artwork is a fantastic project which links to our Garden Town vision and will provide a focal point for Taunton that really puts the county town on the map. I would encourage people to get involved and get behind this exciting project which will have wider benefits for the district."




In response, Kit Chapman, Director of Arts Taunton said:

"In launching this massive consultation exercise, we are all delighted at the enthusiastic support coming from the Council. Federica Smith-Roberts and her team clearly recognise the importance of place-making and establishing a bold identity for Somerset's County Town as a destination in its own right".

Arts Taunton
For full information go to https://artstaunton.co.uk/project/creechbarrow-hill-project/

Contact
Pam Knight