Residents can enhance the historic Banbury Cross through Cherwell District Council’s sustainable arts project.
Published: Tuesday, 26th March 2024
Round and Round is a council initiative being run in partnership with artist Anne-Marie Cadman. It will focus on reducing, reusing, and recycling, a key strategic aim of the council, and will see the old floral display frames from Banbury Cross roundabout repurposed.
Four structures, three hobby horses, and a sun will be used as frames for temporary textile installations displayed from May to September. The installations will bring extra vibrancy and complement the annual floral displays at the iconic local landmark.
Nicola Riley, Assistant Director of Wellbeing and Housing Services, said: “Trying your hand at something you’ve not done before is a great way to make friends, learn new skills and boost your mood. We are proud to provide residents with the opportunity to come together to create something that reflects the heart and spirit of the Banbury community.
“We are excited to welcome Anne-Marie to our upcoming sessions to ensure that attendees can unleash their creativity under the tutelage of an expert and wholeheartedly encourage everyone to join us at our free sessions.
“Sustainable practices are important to us as a council, and we are delighted to be able to repurpose pre-existing materials and transform them into a bright, cheerful, and personal welcome to Banbury.”
Anne-Marie, said: “I am thrilled to be involved in this public arts project. The aim of the initiative is for participants to have fun and harness their creativity with the techniques on offer, use some vibrant recycled materials and bring the outcomes together for four eye catching community arts installations.”
Five in-person sessions will be held across three venues in Banbury throughout early April. The free sessions are open to all, and no previous experience is required.
Three activities will be held at the Orinoco store on the High Street on 2, 3, and 5 April from 1pm to 3pm, and sessions will be held at Springfest at the Hill across the day on 4 April. There is no requirement to pre-book for these events, and those attending can turn up on the day.
The Mill Arts Centre will hold an event on 11 April from 10am to 3pm. Places need to be booked by emailing laura.walker@themillartscentre.co.uk or jane.sperinck@themillartscentre.co.uk or by calling 01295 227177.
A limited number of at-home packs are also available for those unable to attend an in-person session. These are offered on a first-come, first-served basis by calling 01295 221980.