PROFESSIONAL artists from all corners of the UK and beyond are warmly invited to take part in a project to design a new piece of public art for Shinfield.
Shinfield Parish Council and Arts4Wokingham have launched the project to commission a new art installation, which will be the final piece in the development of Shinfield’s new village centre.
Cllr Raj Tatla, chair of Shinfield Parish Council, said: “We’re proud to support a project that not only enhances our public spaces but also celebrates the creativity and diversity of Shinfield.”
Where will the artwork be installed?
Developers in Shinfield will begin work later this year to create a new public plaza to the north of School Green Centre.
The winning sculpture will sit on the eastern edge of this plaza, adjacent to the Centre.
What will the artwork reflect?
Artists and sculptors are invited to submit their visionary proposals for a permanent new sculpture that will not only reflect Shinfield’s unique identity and spirit, but will also become a lasting symbol of community pride and togetherness.
They have been given a broad remit to develop concepts that note the history of the parish, while incorporating themes of community, identity, and the future of Shinfield.
How will residents be involved?
A shortlist of successful entries will be selected by November.
The council will then be inviting public input to help choose the final design, ensuring the finished artwork truly resonates with the residents of Shinfield parish.
While hoping for as much local participation as possible the final choice will be the proposal which is deemed to be the best fit for the site.
What is the purpose and vision for the artwork?
Shinfield Parish Council is committed to making the parish SHINE (Safer, Healthier, Interesting, Neighbourhoods, Engaging everyone).
The competition reflects this commitment, and aims to make the parish a more interesting place to live, while fostering creativity, encouraging connection, and building a brighter, art-filled future for all who call the parish home.
“This is an exciting milestone for Shinfield,” said Cllr Matic, chair of the Arts, Culture and Events Committee for Shinfield Parish Council.
“Beyond our substantial investment in new community buildings and sports facilities, this initiative is about nurturing a vibrant cultural landscape that benefits every resident.
“Our first Art Exhibition in February 2025 attracted lots of people, and now we look forward to even greater community involvement as we shape a cultural legacy together.”
Key information
The competition is open to all professional artists and sculptors.
It will open in early August 2025, with the final deadline for submissions Friday, October 24, 2025.
A shortlist of successful entries will be selected by the following month, and after public consultation, the winning design will be announced in March 2026.
A sculpture unveiling celebration is planned to take place in May 2027.
Bruce Winton, chief executive and clerk to Shinfield Parish Council, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Arts4Wokingham, led by Charlotte Haitham-Taylor, for their support throughout this project.
“Their expertise and enthusiasm have been instrumental in getting us to this point, and we’re delighted to be working alongside them to deliver a legacy piece for Shinfield.”
For more information, visit: shinfieldparish.gov.uk, and arts4wokingham.com.
