Friday 29 March 2024
 7°C   SSE Gentle Breeze
Ocean Kinetics - The Engineering Experts

Arts / Art trail organisers re-evaluating low-lying sculpture after accidents

The sculpture after the cones were added.

TALKS are ongoing about what to do with a recently installed sculpture on Lerwick’s Commercial Street after it was involved in accidents with both a vehicle and a pedestrian.

The low-lying sculpture, outside the Royal Bank of Scotland, was installed earlier this year as part of the LOCUS contemporary public art trail but in recent weeks it has been surrounded by traffic cones.

It was created by Glasgow-based sculptor Joseph Ingleby, with the piece – called Storm Cargo – taking the form of two halves, inspired by the shape of a guillemot’s egg.

The art trail was overseen by both Living Lerwick and Shetland Arts.

The matter was brought up at a meeting of Lerwick Community Council on Monday by member Andy Carter, who believed vehicles may be prone to hitting into it.

“I think it would be a good idea if it was moved to a less hazardous spot,” he said.

His fears were confirmed by Living Lerwick chairman Steve Mathieson, who said the cones were brought in after a couple of accidents.

One involved a car hitting the sculpture, and the other was a person tripping on it.

“We are in discussions at the moment with the roads department about the best solution for it,” Mathieson said.

“We will hopefully resolve that ASAP.”

One option being considered is moving the sculpture.

Mathieson added that Ingleby is known for low-lying sculptures around the country.

The meeting also heard that children have been seen playing on the LOCUS sculpture outside the parliamentary office, which is tall steel structure that takes inspiration in part from ladders.

But Mathieson stressed that the sculptures went through the planning process and the designs were assessed before they were installed.

He added that in theory a sculpture is no different to other pieces of street furniture.

The LOCUS art trail was funded by Shetland Islands Council though the Scottish Government Town Centre Fund.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.

Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.

Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has  over 600 supporters  who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.

Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -

  • Bring you the headlines as they happen;
  • Stay editorially independent;
  • Give a voice to the community;
  • Grow site traffic further;
  • Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.

If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.

 

Newsletters

Subscribe to a selection of different newsletters from Shetland News, varying from breaking news delivered on the minute, to a weekly round-up of the opinion posts. All delivered straight to your inbox.

Daily Briefing Newsletter Weekly Highlights Newsletter Opinion Newsletter Life in Shetland Newsletter

JavaScript Required

We're sorry, but Shetland News isn't fully functional without JavaScript enabled.
Head over to the help page for instructions on how to enable JavaScript on your browser.

Your Privacy

We use cookies on our site to improve your experience.
By using our service, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy.

Browser is out-of-date

Shetland News isn't fully functional with this version of .
Head over to the help page for instructions on updating your browser for more security, improved speed and the best overall experience on this site.

Interested in Notifications?

Get notifications from Shetland News for important and breaking news.
You can unsubscribe at any time.

Become a supporter of Shetland News

We're committed to ensuring everyone has equitable access to impartial, open and quality local journalism that benefits all residents.

By supporting Shetland News, you play a vital role in ensuring we remain a pivotal resource in supporting the community.

Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.