Last night, Newark and Sherwood District Council’s Cabinet voted to install the Kiddey Stones outside Castle House on Great North Road in Newark.
Councillor Rowan Cozens, Portfolio Holder for Heritage, Culture and the Arts at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “I am delighted that the Kiddey Stones will be installed in Newark and, after many years of being out of sight, will finally become accessible for people to see and enjoy.
“Reflecting the working lives of miners and electric plant operators, the Kiddey Stones will provide a visible and prominent reminder of our heritage and are an important piece of a larger jigsaw to enhance the arts and cultural offer of Newark and the wider district, without requiring a visit to a gallery or paying for the privilege of doing so.
“By displaying works like this, we are not only honouring our district’s heritage but also hopefully encouraging and inspiring local artists of the future to pick up a pencil, brush, or chisel.”
Councillor Paul Peacock, Leader of Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “There has been a lot of interest in the proposed installation of the Kiddey Stones and, understandably, people have different views.
“It’s only right they should have the opportunity to comment, challenge, and ask questions. Investment in the arts, heritage, and culture is something that, nationally, regionally, and locally, tends to feature low on the list of priorities, but in a district like Newark and Sherwood, it’s really important.
“Contrary to some of the misleading information that has been circulated by those wishing to turn this into a political argument, Council Tax is not being raised to fund the installation of the Kiddey Stones. The money is coming from reserves already held by the Council.”
Councillor Cozens concluded: “Taking some time out of your day to enjoy something beautiful is incredibly important, and that should never be underestimated. In my opinion, it is impossible to place a value on that, and I hope that many people will enjoy the wellbeing benefits of these beautifully impressive sculptures without having to travel outside the district.
“Over the last 40 years, Newark Town Council has tried to find suitable locations for these sculptures on more than ten separate occasions, but each time was unsuccessful in finding somewhere appropriate. Choosing a suitable location for them, therefore, we know is a challenge, but we believe these sculptures have now found a permanent place to settle at last.
“I have seen a lot of discussion around the Kiddey Stones on social media, and I am aware that there are mixed feelings about this project. However, I have spoken to many residents, and I firmly believe there is a need and desire, from a good proportion of our residents, to see the installation progress. It is impossible to please everyone, but I hope those residents who asked to see the installation progress are happy with that decision. Beyond that, I hope many more residents and visitors will also enjoy the sculptures when installed and that, in the near future, these become the beginning of a wonderful new art trail in Newark. Ultimately, our goal with this project is to increase footfall to Newark, especially via train, while supporting residents’ and visitors’ mental health, and improving our local economy.”
Robert Kiddey was a sculptor, artist and teacher, born in Nottingham in 1900.
His work is visible across Nottinghamshire, including on Nottingham’s Council House and County Hall. Many of his works depict the working people of Nottinghamshire, including coalminers, metalworkers and agricultural labourers.
Kiddey moved to Newark in 1931 and, during his time there, produced many important pieces of work, including the Kiddey Stones, which comprise 12 pieces of stone forming four panels, each depicting a different aspect of electricity production.
