Tuesday 18 March 2014

TA DAH!

Back in November 2012 I was invited to design a piece of public art to celebrate 200 years of trading on the Bath Road, Cheltenham
I can remember feeling daunted by the enamel coated panels waiting to have the design scratched into it.
Thanks to Hy-Tech Enamellers, www.hytechenamellers.co.uk
Rachel and I were able to work in the factory while Agas and baths were being enamelled around us.
We learnt so much from John White about the industrial enamel process.
The excitement of watching the panels being fired
 in large continuous furnaces.
But today was the day the Bath Road panels were unveiled to the world. 
I got the chance to meet again those who helped the project succeed, Viv from Hy-Tech cheerfully kept us all organised.
John who allowed us into his factory to make the work.
Brian lent me lots of precious material which makes the panels detailed and fascinating.
Niki, who got me involved with the project in the first place.
A real Ta Dah moment as Martin Horwood MP unveiled the work.
At last this work is on the wall of the Exmouth Arms, Bath Road, Cheltenham.
It has been an exciting journey, researching into the local history of this interesting road. There are so many people to thank for helping me and Rachel achieve this project. Thankyou Cheltenham Connect whose initial idea it was to commission a piece of public art.

7 comments:

Wendy Rhodes said...

Huge congratulations in order. It looks quite an event. A very proud, but nerve racking, time I expect. It looks fabulous, can't wait to see it in real life.

Anna said...

How exciting and what a massive project!!It looks fabulous, what a wonderful addition to the street scene. Many congratulations.

LAC EMP 2020 said...

It's been a long haul from inception to completion but you got there! This is great news - the first of many such commissions I hope. xx

Wade said...

The work is lovely, just absolutely fantastic! And what an experience. Did you ever feel daunted during the experience or did you just find your "zone," so to speak? Congratulations on all counts!

Caroline said...

It looks so! so good! I still can't quite picture exactly where it is but I know it will still be there next time I am in the area! It needs a Google maps flag. Love seeing your work on this scale and I also hope this is the first of many commissions!

Unknown said...

it's beautiful Sue!!

I'll go and check it out myself soon. Take care!

Sara Bowen said...

Wow! The panels are beautiful, Sue, and you've obviously had so much fun! I used to live along there so I can picture exactly where they're mounted... must try and visit next time I'm over. Sara x