New Sculptures Mirror Beautiful Local Landscape

Published on: 17 Feb, 2014
Updated on: 17 Feb, 2014

Three large oak sculptures now enhance the grounds of Boxgrove Gardens thanks to Guildford Borough Council, artist Roger Day and developer Linden Homes Guildford.

Unveiling of the sculptures in Boxgrove Gardens.

The sculptures, collectively called Connected Living, highlight the public right of way that passes through the site to Merrow Downs. Each has an opening that people can look through, leading them to the next sculpture and the countryside beyond.

Artist Roger Day ran workshops with local residents who were able to try their hand at wood carving. Participants carved their initials on to part of the trees used for the sculptures. They used traditional hand tools and were guided by Roger to create their own name plates.

He said: “The abstract sculptures mirror forms inherent in the beautiful surrounding Surrey landscape, and reflect on the past, present and future of the place. The one titled Beginnings is positioned by Epsom Road, Unity in the central gardens and Freedom at the top perimeter gate. I hope the quiet abstract forms give point for reflection and contemplation.”

Linden Homes Guildford commissioned the sculptures as part of a Section 106 agreement, where property developers agree to contribute part of their total project costs to local amenities.

Linden Homes worked with Guildford Borough Council to advertise for and select an artist from more than 50 submissions.

The managing director for Linden Homes Guildford, Peter Youll, said: “Roger’s sculptures are beautiful and deserve their place at Boxgrove Gardens, with its special and popular character.

“Boxgrove Gardens is a new development and at Linden Homes it’s important for us to help build links with the surrounding community, not just high-quality houses. I hope these artworks will help connect residents with the stunning countryside, public footpaths and local culture.”

Boxgrove Gardens has been built on the former site Uplands, once occupied by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.