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Last summer you may have joined b-side on a WalkTalkArt event, as part of a public consultation conducted by b-side on behalf of Weymouth & Portland Borough Council. The walks gave residents an opportunity to discuss ideas with others around what type of art, and which parts of Weymouth might be prioritised for a series of art accommissions.

b-side project manager Carolyn Black said “We heard some brilliant ideas and we would like to thank all those that took part and shared their thoughts and time with us, they have really helped to inform the artists brief”.

Following the WalkTalkArt consultation b-side have launched an artist brief to create up to six new artworks for the town. The artist brief is now out, with a deadline of 1st March 2019. The artists will be selected by members of the Arts Advisory Panel, chaired by Cllr Richard Kosior, brief holder for culture, and with curatorial support from b-side.

Cllr Kosior stated “The public art trail for Weymouth town centre is an exciting and innovative project and we are keen to recruit excellent artists who have the skills and experience to produce something exciting for the town”.
The public art project will involve the design, commissioning and installation of art works in the town centre. The aim is to enhance the built environment, improve the visitor experience, raise the profile of the town and increase footfall – taking the theme of water as a starting point. The story of Weymouth can be told by its relationship to water – from the well-known sandy beach and esplanade to the older harbour area, backwater and wetlands of Radipole Lake, all offering completely contrasting environments and attractions for visitors.
The artworks will create a trail that tells the story of Weymouth and highlights a number of water bottle refill units, which will be installed around the town by Wessex Water.

There is an emphasis on the term ‘permanent’ – all the artworks must be sufficiently robust to survive outdoors. This means made of suitable materials; be vandal proof; be weather-resistant and comply with health and safety regulations. Applicants must therefore have experience and understanding of the specific challenges of public art.

The application process is via an online portal called CuratorSpace. It’s easy to use, but should you have access difficulties do get in touch. The deadline for expressions of interest is 1st March 5pm and the selected artists will be notified by Friday 15th March. For full details go to:

www.curatorspace.com/

Enquiries: carolyn@b-side.org.uk