A NEW living sculpture created by Redditch people is to be celebrated at a free event at Matchborough Pond.
The public art, ‘Bound By Loss’, consists of a living Willow dome which has been designed, woven, planted and adorned by people in the town.
The project is uniting the Matchborough community through creativity and reflection on the themes of young loss and grief.
The Bound by Loss Celebration Event, which will take place at Matchborough Pond from 1pm until 4pm on Sunday, March 23, will include picnics, games, creative workshops, circus skills sessions, poetry and the time and space to reflect peacefully about lost loved ones.
Reimagine Redditch and Bound Together community interest company (CIC) commissioned multidisciplinary artist Ildiko Nagy to lead the new co-creation project, working closely with residents in Matchborough and across Redditch.
Together, they have co-created a living memorial artwork in a natural setting, which also acts as a cultural space for local people and a serene location in which to reflect and remember.
Alison Osborne, from Bound Together CIC, said: “What’s happening at Matchborough Pond is truly incredible.
“We are co-creating this wonderful space in memory of those we miss.
“At the same time, we are providing an opportunity for people to grieve, heal and connect, both with others and with the support they need.
“The whole process of creating a new artwork together, especially in such a beautiful outdoor space, has been transformative for people in Matchborough.”
Richard Bromhall, Reimagine Redditch’s programme director, added: “We know that creative activities are a balm for anybody experiencing mental health or emotional challenges and our new project Bound By Loss is creating a network of support for people through creativity.
“We’re thrilled that Ildiko is co-creating this new public art. Ildiko is not only a highly talented creative professional, but she has been selected by a group which included our community panel of local people.
“The co-creation process ensures that the work is relevant to the community and is owned by them.
“This is what Reimagine Redditch is all about.”
Ildiko said: “This is a peaceful place for remembrance, a living willow, bird paradise.
“Birds and birdsong are known to ease our pain and connect us to nature at times of grief.
“This project is helping people to grow back their wings and find contentment in their lives by creating a space where memories of loved ones can live through nature forever.”
