Developer rings the changes at £30m Bell Court
A new mixed-use development in Stratford-upon-Avon has been characterised by a new piece of public artwork.
Commissioned by UK & European Investments, the sculpture has been created by artist, Louisa Forbes and depicts Puck, the lively sprite from Shakespeare’s Midsummer Night’s Dream.
The bronze artwork is part of the £30m redevelopment of Bell Court which, as well as bringing 70,000 sq ft of retail and leisure space to the town, has delivered an improved public realm, including a new green wall, seating area, feature lighting and landscaping.
When complete, the aim is for the public realm to be used as event space, hosting live music, markets and other family-friendly activities.
Louisa Forbes said: “My inspiration came from the green wall that has been installed at Bell Court. For me, this was the perfect backdrop for Puck as it resembles the wood where the sprite got up to most of his mischief, in particular where he first accidently used the love potion on Lysander.
“You can imagine from how he’s sat that Puck is gesturing towards the new Everyman cinema saying ‘tadaa’ whilst peeking out at people in the central courtyard trying to entice them towards him.
“Perhaps it’s just my romantic side but wouldn’t it be lovely if that area of Bell Court became a romantic meeting place, just like the woods were in Midsummer Night’s Dream?”
The sculpture has been located adjacent to the cinema and what will be the new Miller and Carter restaurant.
John Stacey, Asset Development Director at UK and European Investments, said: “Louisa’s designs really stood out to us and we’re thrilled to now have this important addition to our scheme as we complete the final stages of the redevelopment.”
Proposals were submitted by 40 artists with UK & European Investments working with its architects, Mountford Piggott, to shortlist six contenders before finally commissioning the Puck sculpture.
In addition to Puck, Louisa has also sculpted five owls that are hidden in the green wall at Bell Court.
UK & European Investments has also overseen the return of the historic 14th Century market bell to Bell Court, which is now hanging in the timber frame at the High Street entrance to the development.
