University of Nottingham Lakeside Arts announces new public art commission

The University of Nottingham's Lakeside Arts complex today announced an exciting new commission for public art in its grounds by internationally-renowned artist Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva, and called for students and members of the public to join in its creation. Using an ancient Japanese technique called shou sugi ban , two tree trunks will be darkened, traced with metallic patterns and motifs that reflect the city and University's heritage, and installed in the grounds by the Lakeside Theatre. The work will use fully environmentally-friendly techniques and the tree trunks will be sourced from those currently being removed from the University estate — due to poor health or having reached the end of their natural lifespan — as part of its arboretum project. Students and members of the public will be invited to help design the work by suggesting the patterns and motifs to be used, perhaps incorporating words or mathematical and scientific symbols used by today's students that will reflect upon its unique setting. They will also have the opportunity to join Elpida in making the pieces in an open marquee in Lakeside's grounds, as she has done with other of her works. Director of Nottingham Lakeside Arts, Shona Powell OBE said: "We are delighted to be working with Elpida to produce a stunning addition to our public arts offer. It is particularly exciting that University staff, students and members of the public can both observe and be part of the creative process, as well as enjoy the end result." Elpida Hadzi-Vasileva, said: "Nottingham has a proud cultural, educational and political tradition that will be truly fascinating to reflect in this artwork.