Second call for artists to bid for library project

Cllr Chris DowlingARTISTS wanting the opportunity to add their creative touch to Newhaven’s new library have been given a second chance to apply.

In August, East Sussex County Council invited artists to submit ideas for an eye-catching window which celebrates Newhaven.

The selection panel decided to give artists a second chance to apply to ensure that appropriate techniques were chosen for the window and have set a deadline of Monday, December 8.

The county council announced earlier this year that three artworks will be commissioned for three new library developments with the help of a £56,000 grant from the Arts Council. All three commissions will be under the title Transparent.

For Newhaven, the selection panel is looking for a design for a window that overlooks the bus stop and car park at the back of the building. The window must allow people to see into the new library.

“We have had a great amount of interest in the unique opportunity we are offering,” said Cllr Chris Dowling, lead member for community services.

“The window is an important element of the new library and we need to make sure we get it right for the people of Newhaven.”

As well as coming up with an original design for the window, the chosen artist will be asked to share their creative process with library customers and the wider community to ensure everyone has an insight into the artist’s work.

They will also have the opportunity to choose a mentor to work with them as they develop their design, giving the artist an opportunity to learn new techniques.

Artists are asked to submit five images of previous, relevant work and write a statement of no more than 500 words detailing previous experience, their early ideas for the window, how they would use the mentoring opportunity and information on how the process will be shared with the community

Deadline for submissions is Monday, December 8. The selection panel – made up of library customers, elected members, library and arts specialists – will invite three artists to put together site specific proposals before the successful design is chosen.

For more information go to www.eastsussex.gov.uk/leisureandtourism/arts/transparent/public-art-project-transparent

Installation of the artwork at Newhaven Library is expected to be complete in autumn of 2015.