News
Arrow sculpture inspired by mining and nature at Rainworth Heath Nature Reserve
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust proudly unveiled its new sculpture at Rainworth Heath Nature Reserve last week – a giant oak arrow - which pays tribute to the area’s captivating heritage, it’s past and present and deep connection with local legends. The sculpture is the result of a year-long engagement project, delivered by Inspire Youth Arts through Miner2Major.
The sculpture was created in collaboration with young people from Dawn House School, Joseph Whitaker School, and the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust Young Rangers. Artist Richard Janes facilitated workshops with the schoolchildren, working with them on themes of mining, local heritage, and nature over the last year. The children were introduced to wood carving techniques then given the opportunity to ‘make their own mark’ and add their own carvings to the sculpture themselves under Janes’ guidance. The sculpture’s final design features an image of a miner and local wildlife species from the Rainworth Heath site.
Crafted entirely from oak, the final artwork resembles a colossal arrow shot into the ground. Purposefully designed to fuse the rich history of the area with the local landscape and blend into the natural surroundings of the reserve.
The oak arrow sits at the heart of the Rainworth Heath site and will weather naturally. Visitors to the area are encouraged to come and see the sculpture and discover more of the site and its local walks – which is located adjacent to the former Rufford colliery site. The Rainworth Heath Nature Reserve is managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and is one of the last remaining areas of heathland in Nottinghamshire, home to many species of birds, insects, and plants in the heart of the Sherwood Forest area.
The project has been a creative way to engage young people in Nottinghamshire with the natural landscape and local history. Sculptor Richard Janes is currently working with both schools involved the project and will be producing sculptures for each school that link with the Rainworth Heath work.
Miner2Major launches 2023 Knitting Challenge!
The Miner2Major Landscape Partnership Scheme, Inspire, Nottinghamshire Police, Newark and Sherwood District Council and Creative Lives are supporting Nottinghamshire crafters to make Brave Bears for charities working with children in times of need.
We're working with local textile designer Megan Crook, who has designed Brave Bear knitting and crochet patterns, decorated with a special Sherwood Forest acorn motif.
At the end of the exhibition the Brave Bears will be distributed to charities working with children in times of need by Nottinghamshire Police.
Find out more about 2023 Knitting Challenge and download the Brave Bear knitting patterns at Inspire
Step into Sherwood Voices this Spring
A new audio walking experience voiced by Nottinghamshire residents will take you on a journey through the stories and culture of the Sherwood Forest area.
Residents and visitors to Nottinghamshire can step into Sherwood Voices, a series of six audio walks written and directed by Excavate's Andy Barrett, and led by Sherwood people, who invite listeners to take an audio-guided tour of Robin Hood country.
Episodes feature personal stories, experiences, and points of view from people who live in the Sherwood Forest area to inspire people to visit and explore the heart of Nottinghamshire.
The towns and villages of the Sherwood Forest region are full of diverse wildlife, important habitats, fascinating people, and a rich heritage of stories.
The walks have been created through hours of conversation with people from across the Sherwood Forest area. Alongside storytellers, listeners will hear from shepherds, anglers, undertakers, park rangers, vicars, schoolchildren, and many others.
Sherwood Voices is led by Excavate and supported by Inspire, Miner2Major, The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Arts Council England.