<<

Inspiring Views – Artist Brief Experience Art on the Way

Background Downs AONB and are working with Hills Arts (a partnership between Surrey Arts, SCC and Surrey Hills AONB) to commission a series of Inspiring Views projects along the North Downs Way. These projects include view restoration, conservation work and site specific artworks that incorporate an opportunity for rest. The artworks will highlight the inspiring views, provide a reason to visit, pause and appreciate each specific location while encouraging interaction from visitors.

Aims Through the Inspiring Views project, we aim to:  open up a new viewpoint  create an iconic focal point for visits to the North Downs Way  create an art trail for the North Downs Way  attract new visitors to walk the North Downs Way to experience the artwork  improve access to the site for all, including visitors with disabilities  allow regular visitors to experience the landscape in a new way  promote the North Downs Way pilgrimage heritage as a route for reflection, renewal and inspiration  engage local residents through associated activities  link with local businesses and organisations for tourism and wellbeing experiences linked to the artwork

The Brief

The selected artwork will include an opportunity for rest, demonstrate high quality, consider the local environment in the materials used, and celebrate the unique identity of the site. Inspiration could come from the local, geological or pilgrim heritage specific to the location, the North Downs Way and local area. We are open to ideas and suggestions regarding the nature of the work such as a viewing platform, bench that frames a view, more than one structure, a sound bench or the possibility of incorporating different art forms. We are particularly interested in an interactive element and /or the ability for people to submit wording and commemorations to include in the design. The artwork will be installed by February 2021.

The artworks should be: • Relevant to the cultural and environmental context of the area • Thought provoking and educational • Constructed in natural, locally sourced or eco-friendly materials where possible • Durable and requiring minimal maintenance • Safe and not constitute a hazard to public or the environment • Environmentally sustainable

The Role of the Artist/Craftsperson The artist will be responsible for the concept, design, fabrication and installation of the artwork in consultation with Surrey Hills Arts, and the landowner. The artist will participate in the crowdfunding campaign towards this project. The artist will work within a budget of £9000. Linked talks and community workshops will have an additional fee up to £1000. The artist will initially be paid £250 to work up a proposal with visual and/or maquette. Please note that any costs for travel and accommodation incurred by the artist are included in the overall commissioning fee.

The Surrey Hills Arts Programme Manager will oversee the project delivery and support the appointed artist. The artist will provide drawings and specifications and plan the installation with the land owner.

The artist will take part in the press and marketing opportunities relating to the commission and assist in documenting the process. The artist will be expected to provide regular updates on the progress of the project to Surrey Hills Arts and attend meetings as required. The artist will hold Public Liability Insurance. The artist will be required to provide a maintenance plan to the commissioner to preserve the life of the finished artwork/seating.

Community and Business Participation This will take the form of walks, talks and workshops. The artist will undergo a DBS check where required. It will involve targeted local groups of all ages and abilities including local residents and businesses. The participation programme will be developed with the Programme Manager and artist, and respond to local need and opportunities. The artist will engage audiences in the finished piece with talks, walks and digital interpretation.

Inspiring Views at Hillside

Location : , London Rd, Dorking RH5 6AA

Description: Located on the North Downs Way overlooking the Denbies estate and looking towards Box Hill across the . Access and parking via Denbies Wine Estate. The location is situated at the edge of the vineyard in front of a small clump of trees which lays between this point and the North Downs Way.

Application and Selection

Application is open to all, but applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the area and the ability to work on site as appropriate.

To apply, artists/craftspeople must send the following on one pdf document: 1. Current CV with two references and website link 2. Up to six images of relevant work 3. Expression of interest including initial ideas, ways of working and availability to deliver within the project timelines.

A panel consisting of the North Downs Way Trail Manager, Kent & Surrey Hills AONBs, Landowner, Curator and Craft Specialist will select the artist. The panel are looking for a high level of craftsmanship, originality of ideas, sympathy with the environment and a willingness to engage with local people, press and tourism.

Deadline for submissions: Sunday 26th July 2020

Applications must be sent via email or WeTransfer to the Inspiring Views Project Manager: [email protected] For further information, email [email protected] or call 07968 834657.

This work is funded by the European Regional Development Fund Interreg VA France (Channel) Programme and is inspired by other inspiring views work www.inspiringviews.org