Local House Builder Seeking Norfolk Artist For New Commission

Norfolk artists are being invited to bid for a commission to produce a piece of public art to be situated on a development of new family homes in Swaffham – the latest in a series of similar artwork commissions made by a Norfolk house builder.

Watton-based Abel Homes is seeking a local artist to create the artwork for its Cygnet Rise site at Swaffham, where it is building 160 new energy-efficient homes. 

The commission is part of the firm’s ongoing public art programme, which has already seen 16 pieces of public art installed in the county, all made by Norfolk artists.  In 2008 Abel Homes committed to commissioning a new piece of public art at every site where it builds new homes.

Artworks unveiled so far have included sculptures, wooden bas-reliefs, a large copper tree, ornate benches, a village sign, and a large frieze made from found materials.

“When we build new homes, we are creating communities as well,” said Maggie Abel of Abel Homes.  “We hope that these public artworks will form the hub of these new communities, starting to bind the threads together through sparking conversations and giving a sense of shared ownership – as well as a focal point to stop and chat.

“As a local company, this is also a chance to support our local artistic community, which is why we are seeking a Norfolk-based artist to undertake this latest commission.”

The new artwork will be positioned on a piece of public open space on the new development, which is situated off Brandon Road to the south of the town.  Ideas with an agricultural or wildlife theme are being sought.

Artists interested in finding out more about the new commission can obtain a copy of the brief by emailing maggie@abelhomes.co.uk.