Whirlwind sculpture, Lower Dock Street, Newport

Image: © Jaggery Taken: 20 Jun 2010

The 'Whirlwind' metal sculpture, located at the Kingsway end of Lower Dock Street, represents the 'whirlwind of change' that the area has undergone and is undergoing. The 3.6 metre sculpture is made of polished stainless steel. Further along Lower Dock Street is a globe-like sculpture http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/1894847 named Bush. The sculptures form part of wider environmental improvement work that was undertaken in Lower Dock Street during 2007/2008, funded by the European Regional Development Fund and the Local Regeneration Fund. The improvement work included new paving, kerbing and general street environment improvements. As part of the project, artist Andy Hazell was appointed to design pieces of public art that commemorate the history of the street. Consultation events were held at which local residents recounted their memories of Lower Dock Street. Following these events, the two sculptures were commissioned. Additionally, a number of cellar covers and pavement artwork designed by Andy Hazell were installed which also relate to the history of the area. The two sculptures seek to represent the history of the street by focusing on the families who have lived there and contributed to the growth of Newport to its present city status. Text incorporated into the designs includes the names of old businesses and people who were located in the street during its prime period. I acknowledge with thanks information provided by Newport City Council's Projects & Design team.

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