New art display transforms Newark Market Place

A brand-new summer installation has been installed in Newark Market Place which aims to animate the town centre and add some colour for visitors while they shop.

The installation, organised by Newark and Sherwood District Council in partnership with Newark Town Board through their Newark Heart project, follows last year’s successful Neurodiversity Umbrella project with Newark Creates which saw fantastic colourful umbrellas up above the marketplace.  These were so well received that the aim is to replicate that success and iconic imagery again for 2024.

The display aims to spread a positive message about biodiversity and the environment which is why it features an array of handcrafted and recyclable artwork including bees, butterflies and sunflowers.

The project has been funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund scheme as well as part funded by Newark Town Council. It will remain in position for up-to three years and during the winter seasons replaced with Christmas lights.

Other streets in Newark will also benefit with Carter Gate, Bridge Street, Kirk Gate, Church Street and Stodman Street having vibrant bunting installed to enhance the experience for visitors.

Matt Lamb, Director of Planning and Growth at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “We received such positive feedback from residents last year from the Neurodiversity Umbrella project and we wanted to build on that for the next few years.

“We’re lucky in Newark to have a marketplace which can really benefit from installations like this to make the area look even more bright and welcoming.

“Last year, the umbrellas acted as a temporary installation encouraging more people to visit and spend time in the town centre.  We hope to have the same impact again this year and we encourage visitors to come and see the art for themselves. You can also explore our beautiful town centre by visiting our wonderful independent shops and have lunch in one of our fantastic pubs or restaurants.”

Newark Creates plans on holding a wide range of events in the town centre this year and on Sunday 16 June, in association with SO Festival, they will be one of the first to host an event with the backdrop of the new installation.  Two international Street Theatre and Outdoor Arts shows will be hitting the Town Centre and they will include juggling, Hip Hop dancing Hippos, and the chance to have a go at activities across the market. This really will be an enjoyable day out for the whole family, no need to book and it’s free too!

Newark Creates was set up in 2021 as one of the Historic England's High Street Heritage Action Zone Cultural Programmes and is delivered by the Newark Cultural Consortium. It was also responsible for last summer’s umbrella installation in the Market Place alongside ADHD Foundation – The Neurodiversity Charity.

There are other events on the day planned and you can head to www.newarkcreates.com to find out more!