Studio Morison commissioned to create new public artwork

Studio Morison, Heather Peak and Ivan Morison have been commissioned to develop the design of a new public artwork in St Helens.

Plans for a skatepark have been submitted with partners from across Merseyside and Studio Morison who are leaders in public art and public space, have been researching with St Helens skateboarders and skateboard experts since the spring.

As part of the research 40 skateboarders from St Helens travelled with Studio Morison to Stoke Plaza Skate Park and Projekts in Manchester for inspiration.

The project is being led by a committee that includes Heart of Glass, Merseyside Police, St Helens Council, 51st Skate and the skateboarding community.

Studio Morison are developing workshops with the committee and the skateboarders to ensure the design will be suitable.

The project successfully gained funding from POCA (Proceeds of Crime Act) and Heart of Glass through their Art Council England Creative People and Places fund and CAPP (A Creative Europe funded programme) investments.

Patrick Fox director of Heart of Glass said:

“The popularity of the trip to Stoke with Studio Morison and local skateboarders really showed us the appetite for this project.

"The passion of Heather and Ivan is matched by the skateboarding community and I think this is a brilliant opportunity to create something special for St Helens.

"It has been a long time coming for the skateboarders of St Helens to have an area to develop and showcase their skills - as well as a unique and beautiful space.