Beach walk and creative material collection.

New mosaic for Warrior Square Station

Transition Town Hastings (TTH) is an environmental group with a focus on activities that bring the community together. They have already created the Community Fruit & Vegetable Garden at St Leonards Warrior Square station that everyone can help themselves to – and would now like to facilitate a community designed and crafted mosaic at the front of the station.

TTH have presented their proposal to the Southeastern Train Company, who have given their wholehearted approval. They’ve also conducted a street survey with the local community and immediate neighbourhood of approx. 100 participants and an online survey with over 30 responses, with a unanimous response that it would be a positive addition to the area.

Transition Town member, Alison Cooper said: “You may think that things haven’t been moving forward but I am pleased and excited to say (and it’s taken a while, as these things do), but we have the most amazing project going on…and it will be happening soon!

“Firstly, we have a new mosaic facilitator called Emma Harding, who has kindly organised a Family Beach Walk on Mon 3 June at 6pm at the far end of West St Leonards. This is to gather bits to draw and discuss things we find, led by forager extraordinaire, Geoff Dann! Anyone welcome! Please spread the word!

Example of Emma Harding’s mosaic artistry

“From this, Emma will get a design together to work from – and then we will be making the mosaic from 10 – 19 July*** at Zoom Arts, which is right outside the station next to the wall where the mosaic will be situated!

(*** Since first publishing  these dates were amended – on 31 May: from ’10 – 21 July’ to ’10 – 19 July.)

“We have planned our voluntary session at Zoom Arts on Thursday 11 July from 7-9pm. This will be where we get to know each other, discuss the sessional plans and what we need to be aware of, to test out all the mosaic materials and process of making it and to prepare anything needed.

“Please let me know if you can come along. We’d love to see you and it will be FUN! Thank you so much.”

Rough sketch of mosaic from Emma.

Our survey said…

Those surveyed told TTH they believe the mosaic will visually improve the area, bringing colour and fun to an otherwise barren space; not only bringing pleasure to locals but also being a unique, memorable and welcoming sight for visitors. Some quotes from members of the community:

“I think mosaic could be very uplifting for travellers returning from a stressful working day.”

“More involved with community, more sense of identity.”

“If taken part, feels like you’ve done something.”

“Draws local people together to do it – take ownership.”

Also in: Community Arts