Luton Council has announced public art commission opportunities for local artists, asking them to submit design proposals that create striking and attractive looks for some key “neglected” spots in the town centre, including the long-abandoned old ABC Cinema.
An ambitious long-term plan is in place to transform Luton town centre through a masterplan that will see major developments as well as the continued regeneration of the Hat District and key heritage assets.
To support this long-term transformation, Luton Council and Step Forward Luton have received funding from the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) to deliver new public artwork that captures the culture and heritage in three areas of the town: the former ABC cinema, Mill St and Guildford Street.
The former art deco ABC cinema on George Street, with its curved façade, has been closed since 2000. While the site is waiting for development, this art project will see a shop ‘wrap’ around the building’s lower half, including the steps. There will also be artwork on the building’s upper part, making an attractive new front façade.
The Mill Street project gives an opportunity for a new artwork installation at a prominent entry point to the town centre at the corner of New Bedford Road, in the form of a mural or print to create a new piece of artwork to brighten up the area.
The Guildford Street project will see a new piece of artwork at the entry point to the town’s Hat District and near the location of two major development sites, Power Court, The Stage, as well as Luton Point, the University of Bedfordshire and St Mary’s Church.
Councillor James Taylor, Portfolio Holder responsible for Regeneration and Inclusive Growth at Luton Council, said: “There are a few drab and neglected looking spots in the town centre, and this can really affect what people feel when they are in town. We want them to feel uplifted when they see the artwork once it’s been completed and to feel proud of their town. We want workers and visitors to enjoy their time here too. It’s also important that the works enhance local heritage assets and Luton is celebrated.
“This project is a big part of our vision for Luton 2040, where we want to transform lives through arts, culture and heritage so we can have a town where everyone can thrive”.
Proposals must address the specified criteria and be within the budget specified. Interested artists can find out more and apply at the following links:
Applications are open until 9 December 2024. All submissions will be scored by an independent panel, made up of representatives of Luton Council, Step Forward Luton, Luton Arts and Culture Strategy Group and Luton Heritage Forum.
