HUNDREDS turned out today (Saturday) to celebrate the opening of the Eastwell Bridge in Hailsham which has brought together almost 70 pieces from local artists.
The bridge, linking London Road and Western Road, has frequently been covered in graffiti, but is now the home to mounted artwork from all ages. It was unveiled today as part of the first day of the Hailsham Festival.
The brainchild of the project, Councillor Steve Murphy hopes the bridge will now become a local landmark rather than an eyesore.
Steve Murphy said: “This project has taken over a year to come to fruition with numerous small steps along the way involving many organisations. The people behind Hailsham Festival of Arts and Culture and Hailsham Artists’ Network have been tremendous in the work they have put in to make plan this a reality. The wide variety and standard of artwork submitted by the public is truly amazing. Community Art is a way to combat graffiti vandalism and I hope this bridge now becomes known throughout the County as the Artists Bridge.”
Dr. Tony Biggin, Chair of Hailsham Festival said: “At Hailsham Festival, we believe that the arts represent a vital component of our culture, enriching our community and creating a vibrant landscape from which we all benefit. This installation encapsulates that vision perfectly.”
The Eastwell Bridge Community Arts Project was officially opened by the Mayor of Hailsham, Cllr Paul Holbrook and representatives of East Sussex County Council and Wealden District Council.
Photos: Paul Gibson
