The designs for a new public art piece in Sheffield have been unveiled, and the sculpture is now in production. Artist Coralie Turpin was commissioned by Sheffield Housing Company (SHC) to create the artwork for the Beckett Hill (Malthouses) development in the Parson Cross area.
Community Engagement
Coralie engaged with local schools and residents, collecting stories from people with strong ties to the area to influence the design. She said, "The idea behind the work is around milestones. You can see these old markers beside roads leading into Sheffield, showing distances from the city centre. Milestones also play a part in our lives. Some people move away but still have an affinity with a place, while others move to a new area and establish a new home, marking an important milestone."
Design Concept
This sparked the title 'Milestone - Compass', symbolising how from one place, everyone has the potential to grow and branch out, like compass points. The sculpture incorporates arrow shapes carved by schoolchildren with their ideas. From a distance, it resembles a star, but up close, it reveals intricate details.
Materials and Installation
The cast iron sculpture is durable and long-lasting. It will be installed later this year adjacent to a residential boundary at Beckett Hill, visible from the public highway.
Funding and Impact
The project is funded by SHC, a joint venture between Sheffield City Council, Keepmoat, and Great Places Housing Group. Since 2011, SHC has delivered over 1,700 homes across 17 sites, revitalising neighbourhoods like Parson Cross and Manor. It has provided over £110 million in social value, created or sustained 1,730 jobs (65% based in South Yorkshire), and supported 130 apprenticeships while safeguarding 400 more.
Previous Public Art
This is SHC's fifth public art project, following successes at Norfolk Heritage Park, Brearley Forge, Princes Gardens, and Gaskell Gardens. Steve Birch, SHC Development Director, said, "SHC is committed to meaningful public art to create attractive spaces and express local identity. I'm certain this will create an inspiring installation."
About the Artist
Coralie Turpin has 30 years of experience creating public art. Recent works include 'Roman mosaic' with Jeremy Deller in Scarborough, 'Vertical superposition' in Sheffield, and 'In natures fabric' inspired by Tinsley cooling towers.
