Fort Halstead
Hidden in Plain Sight/Revealing Fort Halstead
FrancisKnight has been appointed by Barratt Redrow Kent to develop a Public Art Strategy for the transformation of Fort Halstead in Sevenoaks, working alongside artist and long-term collaborator Katayoun Dowlatshahi.
The appointment will see FrancisKnight and Katayoun work with the wider design team, stakeholders and local community to explore the unique history, landscape and future aspirations of Fort Halstead, creating a framework for a series of meaningful, site-specific artworks that will become embedded within the development.
Formerly a key defence research site, Fort Halstead has a rich and fascinating history. Once closed to the public for generations, the redevelopment presents an opportunity to reveal and celebrate the stories, people and innovation that have shaped the site, while creating a new identity for its future community.
The Public Art Strategy will explore how artwork can be integrated throughout the development to enhance the public realm, strengthen connections between people and place, and create memorable spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy. Through research, site visits, conversations and community engagement, the team will uncover the narratives and characteristics that make Fort Halstead distinctive.
Artist Katayoun Dowlatshahi brings extensive experience in public art, printmaking and fine art photography, with a practice centred around place-making, wayfinding and the relationship between people and their environments. Her research-led and collaborative approach will help shape an artistic response that reflects Fort Halstead’s heritage and evolving identity.
FrancisKnight and Katayoun have collaborated since 2015, and this commission continues their shared approach to creating work that is rooted in context, conversation and connection.