News Stunning new artwork arrives in Mote Park

A stunning new sculpture has been installed outside the new Learning Space in Mote Park. Created by Maidstone-born and raised ceramic artist Jack Durling, the ‘Shared Memories Mural’ comprises around 2,000 handmade tactile tiles.

The mural is reflective of both historic and contemporary memories of Mote Park that were shared by local people, as well as around 90 students from Valley Park School who helped to create the individual tiles. Capturing each memory in a single tile, they are collectively brought together in the beautiful circular piece.

Each tile was hand-made using an architectural clay body and then glazed in a variety of complementary colours. The colour palette is inspired by the seasons: greens for Spring and growth; yellow for Summer and warmth; sepias for Autumn and leaves; and blues for Winter and the cold. Additional colours that reflect blossoms and flowers create a charming patchwork that blends beautifully into the landscape of the park.

Councillor Claudine Russell said

“I love this stunning piece of artwork, the colours and style are so beautiful and so well put together it draws you in for a closer look. It really complements our magnificent 450 acre park and being so close to the café and Learning Space we know it will be enjoyed by thousands of visitors.

“One of our key aims is to make Maidstone a thriving place with a vibrant leisure and culture offer which is enjoyed by residents and attractive to visitors and this artwork certainly does that.”

Local artist Jack Durling said:

“Mote Park has always been a special place for not only me and my family but for many other people near and far. It was my nan of 89, a permanent resident of Maidstone, who inspired my initial ideas with the sculpture, she has long told stories of the past and how Mote Park was in the days of her childhood. Many tiles depict touching and personal memories of individuals which is something I found quite moving when running the workshops. It is my hope the Mural continues to inspire reflection on the legacy of Mote Park.”

Jack would like to extend particular thanks to the following:

Valley Park School, Ms A Colins, Jack’s original teacher of ceramics, fellow teacher and the students, sixth formers and scholars.

The General Public with their responses to the public survey.

Plunge Creation, Fabricators.

University of Brighton, 3 x 3D Design and Craft Students BA Hons, who helped with glazing.

The MBC officers at Maidstone Museum and Mote Park.

Watch a time lapse video of the artwork being installed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oj08Ei97tz8

Sign up to Maidstone Borough Council e-newsletters ‘Stay Connected’ to receive vital news and updates via email for the many services and events provided by the Council https://maidstone.gov.uk/StayConnected

---