Unveiling of new sculpture marks the opening of Tithebarn Local Centre
A new Local Centre is shortly to be completed on a major mixed-use development close to Exeter Science Park. The Tithebarn Local Centre will be a focal point for the community.
A new sculpture will form the central feature in the landscaped area of the Tithebarn Local Centre. The sculpture named ‘Chaetonotus’(pronounced ‘key-toe-no-tus’), has been created by East Devon artist, Martin Staniforth. Its curvy form of has been designed to echo the shapes of tiny creatures living in nearby ponds. The ponds form part of the Sustainable Urban Drainage System, on the opposite side of Hutchings Drive in the Redhayes green corridor. The five connected ponds manage surface water run-off during wet periods and are also home to tiny creatures including the Chaetonotus at only 1.5 mm long, These organisms filter bacteria from sediment helping ecosystems to function healthily.
The sculpture took many months to create, and the final casting took place at The Lost Foundry near Axminster.
The sculpture has been funded by Exeter-based, Eagle One Limited, developer of the new Local Centre, and was selected with the help of Thelma Hulbert Gallery (THG) in Honiton.
The Tithebarn Local Centre, developed by Eagle One, includes a convenience store, café, play area, multi-use games area, pocket park, public square, sport pitches, and landscaping. All construction works have been delivered by local firms Devon Contractors Ltd and Pavilion Construction Ltd.
The Centre forms part of a broader, mixed-use development which will include over 1,600 dwellings, once completed. It is located at Tithebarn Way, Exeter, EX5 2FN.
Sculptor Martin Staniforth, aka Morth, said, "I find it inspirational to think how tiny things, like Chaetonotus, make a difference. I hope that people find this organic sculpture to be uplifting and optimistic, that they can enjoy a moment of reflection and appreciate the power of nature to grow and restore."
Councillor Nick Hookway, Portfolio Holder Culture, Leisure, Sport and Tourism, East Devon District Council (EDDC), unveiled the sculpture adding, "Public art is an important part of creating communities in which people want to live. The Chaetonotus sculpture has been inspired by this location and so helps people to connect with a local story."
Gemma Girvan, THG Curator, commented, "It’s been a fascinating opportunity to work with a local sculptor creating meaningful art within a local development. THG operates as a ‘cultural hub’, supporting communities in their health, environment and well-being through a programme of exhibitions, events and workshops in the gallery as well as taking art out to the local community."
Main image: L-R: Stuart O'Higgins - Devon Contractors, Councillor Steve Taylor - Broadclyst Parish Council, Sarah Elghady - EDDC Cultural Producer, Cllr Olly Davey - EDDC, Cllr Nick Hookway - EDDC, Hannah Doulin - Eagle One, Jon Symons - Eagle One, Paul Osborne - EDDC Growth, Development and Prosperity, David Millar - Eagle One, Martin Staniforth - sculptor, Chris Hariades - EDDC Development Management, Cllr Richard Jeffries - EDDC, Zoe Hughes - Community Builder Wellbeing Cranbrook/Exeter, Audrey Haine - LHC Design, Liam Fisher - EDDC Development Management.
