A Public Art Project to collaborate with schools in Stocksbridge to create a sculpture that will sit outside the Hub 519 library building is underway.

The design of the sculpture will be informed through a series of school’s workshops looking at local history, folk law and culture.

All primary schools in the town are planning to take part in the workshops from September, and sessions will be hosted by Stocksbridge library for home schooled children and SEND groups.

They will use drama and creativity to support literacy and the broader curriculum through creative learning.

As part of the project, every child in year 4 in Stocksbridge will have the opportunity to complete their Arts Award Explore. The project will support them in the journey to achieve their award.

The final sculpture, which will stand at approximately three meters at the entrance to the completed library, will be made by local artist Andrew Vickers, aka Stoneface.

Hilary Osborn, Stocksbridge Towns Fund Board member overseeing the Public Arts Project, said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for young people across Stocksbridge to help shape a permanent piece of public art that reflects the town’s unique history, culture and identity.

“By involving every primary school, as well as home educated children and SEND groups, the project will not only create something lasting for the community, but also inspire creativity, learning and pride among the next generation.”

As part of the project, each of the two infant schools in Stocksbridge will receive four days of creative workshops, while each junior school will receive six days, providing extensive opportunities for pupils to contribute ideas and themes for the sculpture and wider public art programme.

Each school will also be visited by a local illustrator who will eventually also work on the art installation.

Alongside producing lasting public art, the programme is expected to deliver wider educational and social benefits.

Andrew Vickers, sculptor and artist at Stoneface Creative, said:

“I’m incredibly proud to be creating the artwork for the new Stocksbridge Library.

“As a landmark building at the heart of the town, the library will play an important role in the community, and I am honoured to contribute a piece of public art that celebrates the area’s identity, reflects its people, and complements this exciting new development.”

Lauren Ash, a local drama artist who will be running the school engagement programme, said:

“This is a really exciting project to be involved with and I’m looking forward to working with local school children to bring their ideas to life through creativity.

“Creating a sculpture inspired by the stories, ideas and voices of young people is a wonderful way to celebrate our shared heritage and create something lasting for the community.