Artist proposals sought for gateway sculpture for Birr

Proposals are being welcomed for a Birr roadside sculpture commission worth €45,000. The new sculpture was suggested as part of the Birr Public Realm Plan and money to make it a reality was sourced by Offaly County Council through pooling per cent for art scheme funds that arose out of public capital projects in the south of the county. The sculpture will be located at the junction at Woodlands on the Tullamore Road in the town. According to Arts Officer Sinead O'Reilly the money in question can only be used for an artwork, and will be lost if unused. "We are conscious that some people may question this as appropriate use of public funds in the current climate, however if we don't use the money in this fashion, we lose it. It does not get reallocated into other needs. "The money is ring fenced by the Department of Environment, and we can only draw it down by commissioning a project like this." A commissioning process is now being organised by Offaly County Council through the Arts Office, and it's hoped a final design will be "an innovative response to and symbol of Birr's unique rich cultural and environmental heritage" that can stand proudly on a par with the now iconic 'Saints and Scholars' sculptures by Maurice Harron on the Tullamore bypass. Artists are being invited to submit proposals to be assessed by an appointed panel that will include representatives, artists and professionals. This panel will shortlist up to four concepts which will then be developed by their artists before going on public display in Birr in April. It is envisaged the winning entry will be in place before the end of 2012.