Art sculpture for East Strand

THE improvement works at East Strand in Portrush are set to be enhanced by a piece of public art.

Entitled ‘To the People of the sea - sailing waves', the 12 foot structure will create a vocal point for both locals and tourists.

The artwork has been funded by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.

Kathleen McBride, Causeway Coast Development Manager at the Northern Ireland Tourist Board, said: "We are delighted that NITB will contribute to the East Strand Artwork Project through the Tourism Development Scheme.

"As one of NITB's Signature Projects, the Causeway Coastal Route is a prime tourist attraction and Portrush's location at the centre of the route attracts both local and international visitors to the area.

"This artwork project will help express the town's unique character and to promote its maritime heritage, whilst contributing to the improvement of Portrush's overall public realm. "

She went on: "Historically, Portrush has been viewed as a traditional seaside resort. It is in a prime location, adjacent to the Giant's Causeway and boasts many attractions to visitors, including beautiful beaches and a spectacular coastline. This iconic piece of artwork and the overall improvement of the town's East Strand will help encourage potential visitors to stop off and explore more of the area."

Mayor of Coleraine, Councillor Norman Hillis added: "I believe the new artwork will be well received and admired by the Portrush public as it honours the close affinity Portrush has with the sea, whether it be through the past shipping industry or the current fishing and water sports industry.

"I would like to thank NITB and the Arts Council for their funding and assistance which has made this project possible."

The process to find suitable artwork commenced with an expressions of interest stage that yielded an impressive response rate from artists throughout Europe interested in designing and creating the piece of art for the East Strand.

A public consultation event was also held in Portrush in October to encourage the local residents and beach users to share their thoughts and vision on the final piece. Following a competitive tender process, which attracted twenty submissions, the preferred artwork and associated concept was selected and the commission was awarded to Cork based artist Holger Lnze.