Nature Inspired Sculpture To Be Developed @ Cannon Hall

Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust have secured funding to create an exciting new artwork in Cannon Hall’s parklands.

A grant of £84,380 from the Arts Council England National Lottery Fund will see the installation of ‘The Guardians of Bird Island’ in the winter of 2023. 

The vibrant, family-friendly sculptures and story walk will celebrate Cannon Hall’s stunning wildlife and natural landscape.

A strong environmental theme will inspire the project, and the natural environment will be reflected in material choices, processes, and ethos. 

Created in collaboration with Barnsley communities, there will be a series of workshops led by local artists Lenny and Whale, who will work with groups to co-create the contemporary sculpture. 

The artwork will be unveiled in late 2023 during a weekend celebration. 

Councillor Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “Cannon Hall has been through a transformational time and is a real jewel in the Yorkshire landscape. The Hall and its collections are outstanding, as are the parklands, which we are lucky to have on our doorstep. Improvements to the well-loved visitor attraction continue to be made through external funding. We are delighted to have support from the Arts Council England Heritage Lottery Fund for this incredible project. The artwork will represent the wildlife and natural environment synonymous with Cannon Hall. It will be a real celebration of the area made even more special through the collaborative process, creating the piece with local people.”

Artists Lenny and Whale said, “We are really excited to be working with local communities and families to develop a vibrant and colourful artwork at Cannon Hall.  We are look forward to a creative journey that celebrates nature, whilst highlighting the important environmental issues that the planet faces.”

For more information about Cannon Hall visit www.cannon-hall.com