Sculpture to commemorate tenth anniversary of sailing events given the go ahead

A sculpture will be designed to commemorate a decade since Weymouth took centre stage for the sailing events at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Councillors on Weymouth Town Council’s Services Committee considered a range of options for an art installation at Nothe Gardens on Wednesday 19th January. The town council will work with the Dorchester-based Arts Development Company to help select artists to come up with a creative design.

Once the final design is chosen, it is expected to be installed in the summer for residents and visitors to the town to enjoy.

Cllr Ryan Hope, Chair of Services Committee, said: “There are so many talented artists in and around Weymouth and across Dorset, so I’m looking forward to seeing what designs come forward for this commemorative sculpture.

“It may be ten years since the games showcased Weymouth in the sailing events, but the sculpture will provide a lasting reminder of the fantastic sporting achievements witnessed in 2012. The location for the art piece was chosen because this is where so many spectators gathered to watch the sailing. It will provide the perfect backdrop for taking photos, marketing Dorset’s beautiful coastline, and sharing new memories about this fantastic event over many years to come. ”

An update on the final design will be provided to a future committee meeting.

To view the committee papers visit https://weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk/committee/

Ends

Notes to Editors

Services Committee voted for option 2, selected artist invite.

The Arts Development Company will draft an artist brief and distribute to selected artists only.

Costs for the sculpture are expected to be between £10,000 and £12,000.