Visual Arts

Community arts organisation Multistory and artists Julie Edwards and Ron Thompson of Planet Art invited residents to choose their favourite design as part of a two-day special event at Haden Hill House in March 2008.

The winning Rowley Hill sculpture trail

'Tales of Rowley' was the overwhelming public choice from the five designs on show and it will create a permanent sculpture trail celebrating the area’s heritage.

Located on Rowley Hill, just off East Avenue, the trail will encompass a series of sculptures made from Rowley Rag cast iron and feature scenes of mining, nail making, quarrying and chain making. The trail will lead visitors to a landscaped open space offering fantastic views of the Black Country.

Planet Art will be creating the sculptures for the trail over the coming months and the permanent display will be installed mid-summer.

Rich Franks, Project Manager at Multistory said: "The response to all of the designs was tremendously positive and we are delighted that so many residents cast their vote, in person, over two days. We are all looking forward to seeing the sculpture trail take shape on Rowley Hill."

Julie Edwards and Ron Thompson of Planet Art said: "It’s been an absolute pleasure working with the community of Rowley. We have met some wonderful folk who have really helped shape the sculpture. We are now working with Edwin Richards quarry to choose suitable stone for the pieces of work. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the groups we have worked with."