Emerging Bournemouth sculptor Bob Brewer has been named Associate Artist for this year’s Arts by the Sea festival.
His first major public artwork will take centre stage in Bournemouth Gardens this September, forming a key part of the festival’s 2025 theme We Are Here.
Bob, who only began working in sculpture six months ago, will build a giant hand from woven willow, standing around eight feet tall. The structure is designed to symbolise unity and welcome and will be created live during the festival with the help of local participants.
Festival Director Andrea Francis said Bob’s journey reflects the spirit of the Associate Artist role, which supports under-represented voices and gives space to new ideas.
The public will be invited to step inside the hand and take part in its creation through free workshops, embedding community contributions into the final piece.
Councillor Andy Martin, Portfolio Holder for Culture at BCP Council, said the installation represents a powerful message of belonging and shared creativity.
Running from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 September, Arts by the Sea is funded by BCP Council and Arts Council England, and features large-scale installations, live performance and local engagement across Bournemouth.
The full title and final design of the sculpture will be announced soon and more details will be available at artsbythesea.co.uk.