New Inspiring Views Coming Soon in 2021: Experience Art on the North Downs Way
9th February 2021
Two new Surrey Hills Arts Inspiring Views projects are soon set to launch across the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), improving access and celebrating special locations through innovative, sculptural seating – ‘Radius’ at Denbies Hillside, Dorking and ‘Portal’ at the Titsey Estate, Tandridge.
Radius, Denbies Hillside in Dorking
Appearing in April 2021, Radius will be the highlight of a new route created with conservation volunteers on Denbies Hillside, Dorking, connecting to the North Downs Way. The new trail will be accessible to everyone, including those with mobility issues, meaning that all will be able to visit the new sculpture for an uplifting and relaxing experience.
Created by artist and designer James Tunnard, the thinking behind Radius’ innovative design is to capture the essence of the undulating landscape in its curving shape, whilst providing a window from which to admire the view. Radius will be crafted from locally-sourced timber and provide sculptural seating for those walking the new route. An extra special element of the design will see Radius engraved with words written by local poets and thoughtful inscriptions from members of the public. Inspired by the natural surroundings, it is hoped that these words will stimulate thoughtful appreciation and reflection.
Following the installation of Radius, there will begin an inspirational learning programme to engage young people through sculpture workshops, walks and nature conservation activities. Young people will make their own temporary outdoor structures and bug houses, whilst exploring and learning about their local landscapes. There will also be poetry readings inspired by the view and local stories will be filmed from the seating area. Guided group outings will take people on a range of walks to experience the artwork, visit local producers and see the stunning Surrey Hills views.
This project is funded by the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. It is supported by Surrey Hills Arts, Denbies Wine Estate, Mole Valley District Council and the North Downs Way.
For more information on Radius, see: https://www.surreyhillsarts.org/permanent-works/radius.
Portal, Titsey Estate in Tandridge
With installation also due to take place in April 2021, the panoramic view at Clarks Lane on the Titsey Estate, Tandridge will be the site of another new Inspiring Views art piece this year. Portal will be situated adjacent to the Surrey Hills’ boundary marker and sit on the North Downs Way, meaning that it will provide a restful spot for those exploring locally. Access to the site is being developed, working jointly with the Titsey Estate and the North Downs Way National Trail, to ensure a seamless experience for visitors.
Designed by wood sculptor Philip Walker, Portal will be a sculptural seat from which to make the most of open grassland views south to the High Weald and beyond. The stunning circular artwork will be made of curved English Oak sections, joined using traditional framing techniques, highlighting the incredible view by drawing the eye through the structure as it tapers from the outside inwards. Portal will also feature a curved and intimate bench for seating. The inner face will be textured and tactile, while the outer face will bear carved words inspired by the location.
Once Portal is installed, there will be a learning programme to engage people through sculpture workshops, walks and nature conservation activities. Young people will make their own temporary outdoor artworks, exploring and learning about their local landscape, and there will be a range of guided walks for people to enjoy the artwork, visit local producers and see the beautiful views.
This project is funded by the Interreg France (Channel) England Programme and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. It is supported by Surrey Hills Arts, Titsey Estate and the North Downs Way.
For more information on Portal, visit: https://www.surreyhillsarts.org/permanent-works/portal.
To see other Inspiring Views projects, visit: www.inspiringviews.org.
Surrey Hills Arts is a partnership between Surrey Arts and Surrey Hills AONB.