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Sculptural Benches Commission, Surrey Hills Arts

  •  South East
  •  Â£20k-25k
  •  Full time
  •  Closes October 15, 2025
  •  Ali Clarke
  •  ali.clarke@surreycc.gov.uk
  • #Visual arts

Description

Job Summary

Surrey Hills Arts would like to commission an artist to create three sculptural benches that attract and provide a shelter for a suitable species. This is part of a new pocket park in Tongham, Surrey. Fee: £20 – 26,000 dependant on materials.

Job Description

  • To produce three sculptural benches that demonstrate high quality, consider the local environment in the materials used, and are designed specifically for local wildlife. As in our previous HABITAT projects, this would require research into a chosen species and to build a habitable element into the design. This could be a focus on local butterflies, bees, beetles or birds. We are not looking for these to be depicted on the work at all, but to provide a perch, shelter to support them. See previous HABITAT art works https://www.surreyhillsarts.org/habitat/ To incorporate a local WWII story about men who prevented a disaster with a munitions train during a bombing and were awarded the George Medal. Some reference to this should be incorporated into at least one bench to honour them and highlight this piece of Tongham's history. Artist/ craftsperson will be provided with some information on this and put in touch with Parish Council and local historians who can share further information. To include a QR code on all or one of the benches from which visitors can listen to facts about the wildlife, the history and include community members voices to create an interactive element.
  • Fee £20-26,000 dependent on materials. Paid at £300 per day for 50 days (£15000) plus a budget for materials (£5000 - £11,000).

Job Requirements

The sculptural benches should be: Relevant to the cultural and environmental context of the area Constructed in natural, locally sourced or recycled materials where possible. (we can make introductions to the local saw mill) Durable and requiring minimal maintenance Safe and not constitute a hazard to public or the environment Environmentally sustainable Approximately 1965mm x 500mm in size Ergonomic seat height, depth, and armrest(s) Ready to be installed by March 31st 2026. Assistance can be provided with installation.

Job Responsibilities

The artist will be responsible for the concept, design and fabrication of the sculptural benches in consultation with Surrey Hills Arts, the SCC Placemaking Team and Parish Council. The artist will work within the budget and deliver an agreed amount of community workshops.

Useful Links

How to Apply

Artists/craftspeople must send the following on one pdf document to [email protected] :

Current CV with two references and website link
Up to six images of relevant work
Expression of interest including initial ideas, ways of working, a draft budget breakdown and availability to deliver within the project timelines.

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