A colourful art installation featuring dozens of hand-crafted paper butterflies made by local Rushcliffe people has been unveiled at Rushcliffe Arena in West Bridgford as part of an exhibition to commemorate the impact of the Coronavirus pandemic.
The installation has been organised by Rushcliffe Borough Council, working in partnership with Lady Bay artist Belinda Poon, who has worked with local groups creating the bespoke artwork, now prominently displayed in the building’s atrium.
The butterflies were thoughtfully designed at a series of community workshops, with contributions from Jesse Gray Primary School in West Bridgford, after school art club BCreative, Metropolitan Thames Valley resident groups and FABS, a self-help group who provide support to families affected by suicide.
The butterfly motif used in the installation has been chosen as a symbol of change, renewal and endurance through the COVID-19 pandemic and will be on display until Friday April 1.
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Communities and Climate Change Cllr Abby Brennan said: “Throughout the workshops participants have reflected on their personal experiences of the pandemic, recognising not only the hardship of loss and isolation in difficult times, but also sharing inspiring stories of selfless giving and compassion from across the Borough.
“Now we have this wonderful display from local people for local people we hope that our installation of butterflies will brighten people’s day and give a chance to reflect on the last two years as they visit Rushcliffe Arena.”
Belinda added: “It has been such a pleasure to work with the community groups to create this thought-provoking artwork installation. The workshops enabled each participant to be creative in a social setting, sparking positive reflection and a sense of sharing.
“I am thrilled with the butterfly designs, although there are similarities, each one produced is individual just like their creator.”
The installation is part of a number of COVID-19 commemorative projects planned by the Council which also includes the creation of a memorial garden in Bridgford Park and support for commemorations in parishes such as memorial benches and planting schemes.
