EXPLORE – Conningbrook Lakes
Inspired by nature with a focus on a diverse and abundant wildlife
FrancisKnight was appointed to produce an overall Public Art Strategy for Conningbrook Lakes and curate and deliver a public art programme for both the residential area and the country park.
The former quarry site at Conningbrook Lakes has undergone a multi million-pound development of 300 new homes in the lakeside setting, together with the improvement of facilities at the country park to support its existing water-based and running-track leisure facilities.
FrancisKnight appointed and collaborated with Lead Artist Kerry Lemon to assist with the delivery of the client team’s design and place-making aspirations and to help discharge a public art requirement as set out in a planning condition. The resulting Public Art Strategy ensured consistency of approach and a unique identity for the site.
Artist Julia Clarke has been commissioned to create work under the title EXPLORE to capture the imagination of visitors and residents and enjoy the unique environment of Conningbrook Lakes.
Three sculptural artworks will be created exploring this theme.
Julia’s willow sculpture, The Loop, is the first artwork installed in October 2021 and is located by the water’s edge at the entrance to the development.
Julia’s accompanying sculpture, The Birds, was installed in July 2023 and comprises of seven ‘birds’ elevated from the land as if in flight. The large-scale willow sculpture are situated at the entrance to Conningbrook Avenue by the main lake.
The third and final sculpture will be installed in 2026.