Client: London Borough of Bexley
Location: Erith, United Kingdom
Completion date: 2006
Artwork budget: $123,502
Project Team
Other
Saskia Delman
London Borough of Bexley
Artist
Gary Drostle
Drostle Public Arts Ltd
Overview
Designed as a landmark entrance feature this 80 foot high glass mosaic sculpture sits on the main highway roundabout at the entrance to the town of Erith in Kent. The artwork was entirely designed and made by Gary Drostle and was inspired by the ancient coat of arms of the town, derived from the 11th century arms of the De Luci family. The work also reflects on the towns association with the River Thames and it's connection with the long established traveller community in the area their association with the De Luci family being the root of an old name.
Goals
The main design factor in this project was the need to give identity to the town and mark in on the highway. The idea was to create an image that was both joyful and with meaning to the town.
Process
The artist undertook mosaic making workshops and community information presentation meetings to facilitate the understanding and appreciation of the finished artwork.
Additional Information
The work was awarded the Rouse Kent award for Public Art in 2007 and won the 'Best Architectural Mosaic Award' at the Mosaic Arts International 2008 in Miami, Florida.