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Thinking of Water by the Wansbeck

17th Aug 2005

Leading sustainable transport charity, Sustrans, held a family fun day last weekend to celebrate the completion of the impressive earthwork, 'Thinking of Water' by internationally renowned artist, Richard Harris. The fun day took place on Saturday 13th August at the Wansbeck Estuary, West Sleekburn.

Local families took part in constructing a giant willow sculpture, creating puppets from recycled material and enjoyed face painting, live music and light refreshments. As the new sculpture links to National Cycle Network Route 1, it was possible to cycle to the fun day on a traffic-free path.

The earthwork is part of Sustrans' Arts & the Travelling Landscape project and is inspired by the shape of the rivulets that would have been cut into the mud estuary before the dam was built. Situated on the bank of the River Wansbeck Estuary, 'Thinking of Water, guides the walker or cyclist down a choice of 10 channels towards the water. At the end of each channel, near the water's edge, two large stones provide a resting place or a kind of hide from which you can view the wildlife on the river.

Artist, Richard Harris, said: "My sculpture is to do with the way people relate to a place. Each path leads down to the water and brings you to a slightly different viewpoint. The work will become part of the place, enhancing the experience for people who come here."

This project has been made possible by the generous support of Wansbeck District Council, Northumberland and County Council, Northern Rock Foundation, Arts Council England - North East, Northumberland Strategic Partnershi p, Greeting4Growth and MIDNAG.

Last updated: 22/10/2008