The idea
Tamworth History Group, founded just over ten years ago by three local history researchers., were invited to form an official group by the library and offered a meeting room. Since that time the group has gone from strength to strength and now numbers more than fifty.
Whilst we no longer meet in the library, we still maintain close links with the team and are looking to repair the iconic and unique statues in the library foyer. Damaged during recent refurbishment, this artwork is very highly rated.
With two other works from this artists - at Riverside and Kerria - having been swept away, it is vital we keep this iconic work in the town. The work tells the story of the written word since pre-history, and provides an excellent introduction to readers and writers alike. Work by Fritz Steller has been brought back in the Grade II Listed Queensgate Market in Huddersfield.
What we'll deliver
- The repair of the artwork
- Boards telling why they were repaired and what the work means
- Protect the work from future damage and highlight its importance
Why it's a great idea
The statues form part of a display welcoming visitors to the Central Library. Together with the background on which they hang, they are excellent representations of the development of writing and of the written word.
Andrew Carnegie funded the building of Tamworth's first free public library, since when all have enjoyed and appreciated the written word in its many forms. Packed with information regarding the town and its history, the three 'Rs' (researchers, readers, (w)riters) have all utilised the wonderful services the library and its staff provide.
Tamworth Libraries have inspired readers and also a wealth of writers. The town already boasts one author nearing a hundred published works, and another with over two hundred. Add at least four groups with a literary background: Tamworth Literary Festival, Tamworth Writers, and two U3A groups, all meeting and organising events in the library for years, benefitting greatly from the resources and space the library provides.
Steps to get it done
- It is 50 years this year since the opening of the building by Margaret Thatcher
- It is 60 years since Fritz Steller completed his training at Birmingham College of Art
- Anthony Poulton-Smith will be appointed project lead
- Workshops launched on completion of the repair work
- Talk on the importance of the written word
- Bring in the Steller family to highlight the work
- Liaise with the library to link with other groups in the future
- Monthly workshops to link to art, culture, history, literary groups
