We have helped to create three new sculpture trails across Dorset. Initially developed in 2020, these trails are now in their second year.
Parish Boundary Markers: West Dorset Walkers Welcome
Led by Dorset Council’s Countryside Access Development Officer Tara Hansford, we commissioned eight Dorset artists to create 11 new artworks for the West Dorset Coast Path that runs from Ware, on the Dorset/Devon boundary, all the way to Abbotsbury, to mark Dorset’s parish boundaries.
This project was part of Dorset Coastal Connections, a connected portfolio of 18 projects along the Dorset coast which aimed to support and boost the economies of Dorset coastal areas. Tara explains:
“All too often today, the details that create a sense of local interest and character are lost and replaced by mass-produced monotonous infrastructure. This project reintroduces more of the ‘local’ and ‘distinctive’ interest back into our surroundings. It’s a collaboration between local landowners, local artists and craftspeople in response to the local landscape and its rich cultural history. This project hopes to encourage the walker to look inland and gain a better awareness about the landscape they are walking through and curiosity to explore and learn more about the Dorset parishes along the coast path.”
This sculpture trail could not have been achieved without the input and support of local landowners and grant funding from the Coastal Communities Fund and partner organisations, coordinated by the Dorset Coast Forum.
View the Dorset Coast Have Your Say website for the full list of artworks and more detail about the project.
Pictured: Burton Bradstock to Swyre boundary by Alice Blogg. Photo by Tara Hansford
Bridport Sculpture Trail
Bridport Town Council, The Arts Development Company and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) have been working together to instigate a new sculpture trail for Bridport. Now in its second year, new sculptures have been added and some old favourites kept on for another year. The sculptures can be found along a new green route; a three-mile walk around the historic market town.
Each year a call goes out to local artists to submit new works. A Panel, including Town councillors, select pieces that enhance the natural beauty of the green spaces and create unique and unexpected experiences.
Download the map of the 2021 Bridport Sculpture Trail here
View full list of artworks here
Pictured: Stalking Dog by Greta Berlin
Lyme Regis Sculpture Trail
Le Lister and Langmoor Gardens, in the heart of Lyme Regis, have been home to the sculpture trail since 2015. Perched above the beach, with far-reaching views to the Cobb and coastline beyond, the gardens provide a perfect outdoor gallery for contemporary art.
The sculpture trail is managed and curated by the Arts Development Company in liaison with Lyme Regis Town Council. Each year, new artworks are selected, curated and installed with the aim to enhance the natural beauty of the gardens, create unique and imaginative experiences, and improve the wellbeing of local citizens and visitors.
View a full list of artworks here
Pictured: Ammonite Jurassic Cracked by Hamish Mackie