A colourful and community-inspired art installation celebrating the local heritage and history of Rugby has been unveiled at the town’s railway station. The Rugby Colour Palette, adorned with shades of gold, blue, and red, is now exhibited in an underground tunnel, showcasing the town’s rich culture and noteworthy figures.
The installation pays homage to several local icons and attractions, including the original maker of the Rugby ball, the town’s market, and Lady Dorothie Feilding, the first woman to receive the Military Medal for bravery during the First World War. Renowned local artist Stacey Barnfield spearheaded the project, aiming to embrace the essence of the town through design, typography, and colour. The response from the local community has been overwhelming, with Barnfield expressing his awe at the positive feedback.
The artwork itself consists of a series of paint swatches in gradient designs, adorned with short headlines and local references. It is designed to be vibrant and eye-catching, capturing the essence of the town and its history as people pass through the station. According to Barnfield, the primary goal is to celebrate local history and raise awareness of lesser-known individuals and places in the area.
Funded by the Avanti West Coast Project Fund, the project involved extensive local consultation, as well as workshops with schools and various community groups in Rugby. The colours featured in the installation were carefully chosen by the residents of Rugby, reflecting their meaningful connection to the town and its history.
Barnfield mentioned that the artwork was inspired by the design of paint swatch samples commonly found in DIY stores. He further explained that the installation features three different colour palettes, each with six distinct colours, amounting to a total of 18 references, all of which were generated by the people of Rugby.
The unveiling of the Rugby Colour Palette marks a significant addition to the town’s cultural landscape, celebrating its heritage and showcasing the artistic talent within the community. This inspiring initiative serves to further enrich the experience of commuters passing through the railway station, offering a vibrant and visually captivating display that encapsulates the spirit of Rugby.
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