Waterworks Park in Belfast Re-Imagined

A series of sculptures, created from recycled materials as part of New Lodge Arts' 'Waterworks Big Art Outreach Programme', and one of four art projects funded through the Arts Council-led Re-Imaging Communities Programme, has been launched in the Waterworks Park, Belfast. The sculptures, created by pupils from Boys Model, Girls Model, St. Malachy's and Little Flower working with artist Alan Cargo, will provide a home from home to users of the park.

The aim of the project was to increase awareness of the Park and to highlight its potential for the local and city-wide communities. It will also provide accessible and opportunities for participation for local individuals and communities of all ages and backgrounds. The project also allowed New Lodge Arts and Belfast City Council Parks Department to restore an important shared space to a central peaceful and welcoming place within the community.

Katrina Newell, New Lodge Arts, said: "This is a really exciting project which offers children a great opportunity to think about the Waterworks Park as a shared space, to open it up to the whole community, enhance their skills, and get creative to make a real difference to places where they live."

"The sculptures include two large arm chairs created from stainless steel washers and nuts and one Belfast brick rectangular piece with seating on both sides. They are fantastic pieces and have already received very positive feedback from Park users."

Commenting on the project, Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Chair of the Shared Communities Consortium, said: "The young people have worked together with local artist, Alan Cargo, to create a new artwork, which will rejuvenate their area and make it a more welcoming environment for all to enjoy.

"The Arts Council's Re-imaging Communities Programme has taken a sustained approach to regeneration, providing residents and community groups with the means to reclaim their neighbourhoods and restore civic pride. Here in North Belfast we can clearly see the benefits of that arts-led approach and the completed works are a result of the community's hard work and dedication."

The Re-imaging Programme is funded by the Shared Communities Consortium, led by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, and comprising OFMDFM, DSD, DCAL, Community Relations Council, PSNI, SOLACE (Society of Local Authority and Chief Executives), The Department of Justice, International Fund for Ireland and NI Housing Executive.