Art installation celebrating Radcliffe’s community spirit

Artwork produced by school children from 11 primary schools across Radcliffe has been put on display at the site of the new £40m Radcliffe Hub.

Erected on the site hoardings around the Hub construction site and close to the Bridge Tavern, the artwork depicts how the children view their hometown of Radcliffe, demonstrating the powerful sense of community that exists there.

Local artist Lee Crocker led the art project on behalf of Bury Council’s regeneration team, and the project began with a visit to Bury Art Museum's Spirit of Place.

The Spirit of Place exhibition focuses on the architecture and history of two local streets which helped the children to bolster attachment to Radcliffe in a similar way, contribute to pride of place, and create a solid understanding of the town’s identity.

More than 300 children visited the exhibition at Bury Art Museum before creating at least four individual pieces of art each, which Lee then carefully pieced together to create a compilation for each of the 11 schools.

Councillor Charlotte Morris, cabinet member for culture, the economy and skills, said: “The result of this artwork project is a fantastic collaboration between the children and local artist Lee. It’s amazing to see in art form the imagination and potential of Radcliffe’s younger generation; and the splash of colour is well worth a visit.”

The primary schools that took part in the project were: Cams Lane, Chapelfield, Gorsefield, Greenhill, Millwood, Radcliffe, Radcliffe Hall, St Andrew’s, St John’s, St Mary’s, and Wesley Methodist.

Artist Lee Crocker said: “As an artist it is inspiring to support school children in bringing their creativity and perspectives to life. Their efforts not only brighten the space but also transform it into a vibrant canvas celebrating all that is good about Radcliffe.”

The construction site where the art panels have been installed will ultimately be the home of the Radcliffe Hub, providing a new permanent home for Radcliffe Leisure Centre, the library, wellbeing support and more.

Radcliffe Hub will be a joint-funded facility made possible by £20 million from the Government, £20 million plus from Bury Council, and, specifically towards the leisure facilities, a £2.5 million contribution from Sport England.

To find out more about Radcliffe Hub, see www.bury.gov.uk/radclifferegeneration

ENDS

Photograph:Artist Lee Crocker with pupils and teachers from Cams Lane, Gorsefield, Radcliffe Primary, Radcliffe Hall, St Andrew’s, St John’s, St Mary’s and Wesley Methodist primary schools.

Note to editors

Lee Crocker has significant experience of introducing children to art and he has produced a lot of work specific to Radcliffe, especially through the Spirit of Place project.

Press release issued: 24 May 2024.