The public art for Newtonstewart was commissioned leading Irish sculptor Denis O’Connor
and Bernie Rutter of Sculpture Works. In the public art for Newtownstewart, Denis and Bernie
focused on the historical fabric of the town.
The
artwork makes reference to the historical importance of the
town’s castles – both Harry Avery’s castle and
Turlough O’Neill’s castle, along with the architectural
importance of the ‘Old Bridge’ with its six arch
structure.
Reference is also made
to the physical and geographical formation of the town’s
landscape, directed by the town’s rivers – Mourne
Strule and Owenkillew.
The artwork is a sculpture that makes a
symbolic link with the areas past histories. The work forms a type
of ‘signage’ for the town, highlighting its
architectural gems. It can be seen clearly by both motorists and
pedestrians.
The HEART
Programme
It has been described as
‘unique’ – and the cross-border HEART programme
is living up to that description!As the programme gathers momentum
and is gaining increasing public and media attention, it’s
time to highlight some of the outstanding outcomes of this creative
and innovative project.
It is an equal partnership between Donegal County Council and
Strabane District Council, with funding from Measure 1.4 of EU
INTERREG IIIA Programme, Border Action, Department of Agriculture
and Rural Development, the International Fund for Ireland, Donegal
County Council and Strabane District Council. Twelve towns and
villages across the two council areas were selected for the HEART
programme, which entails environmental improvements, a shop front
scheme and a specially commissioned piece of public art for each
town or village.
These improvements and enhancements are
sensitive and complementary to each locality, involve community
participation and consultation – and ultimately combine to
create and deliver a rural tourism and public art trail across both
council areas, linked by themes based on their history and
heritage.
The participating towns and villages in Donegal
County Council are:
* Ardara * Ballybofey Stranorlar * Ballyshannon * Lifford *
Moville * Ramelton * Raphoe
These complement the selected towns and villages in
the Strabane District Council area, including:
* Castlederg * Donemana * Newtownstewart * Plumbridge * Sion
Mills
One of the most imaginative and central parts of the HEART
programme is the public art aspect. Internationally acclaimed and
multi-award winning artists were selected to research local history
and heritage, and create suitable and sensitive public art, as a
long term tribute to each locality.