New sculpture to celebrate Staveley’s heritage and community
A striking new sculpture is currently being created to welcome residents and visitors to Staveley town centre. Commissioned as part of the Animate Chesterfield public art programme, the piece will celebrate the town’s rich heritage, wildlife, and community spirit.
The sculpture, titled ‘Cuckoo Boat Sail’, is being developed by acclaimed public artist Coralie Turpin. Inspired by the historic ‘Cuckoo boats’ that once sailed from the Chesterfield Canal to the River Trent, the artwork captures the ingenuity and bravery of Staveley’s ancestors while showcasing the natural beauty of the canal and its surroundings.
“The history around the ingenious people who sailed the Cuckoo boats is an empowering one for Staveley,” said Coralie. “The wildlife along the canal is a genuine wealth to be proud of. The sculpture encapsulates this in its sail-like form, colours and detail. I hope it will help people to imagine how brave their ancestors were.”
Coralie’s research with the Chesterfield Canal Trust uncovered the story of these unique vessels, which were pulled by horses and fitted with sails. They were the only boats on the canal capable of sailing out to sea, and their legacy continues to inspire local pride. The sculpture’s sail-like form will incorporate mosaic designs inspired by local wildlife, leaf veins, and natural structures, encouraging residents to explore and appreciate the biodiversity of the Staveley Canal.
The project has involved extensive engagement with local residents and schools. Coralie has hosted creative workshops with pupils from Staveley Junior School and Netherthorpe School, as well as sessions with community members at Edge Ministries. These workshops helped gather ideas and inspired mosaic artworks that will be featured on the final sculpture.
“I love art, it’s fun, mixing colours, blending. It makes me feel happy and excited,” said one pupil. Another said, “I thought I wasn’t good at art, but when I look at what I’ve done, I am!”
These contributions will be integrated into the sculpture, ensuring it reflects the voices and creativity of the people who call Staveley home. The final design will use hand-cut mosaic techniques to feature local flora and fauna alongside mini artworks created by pupils, complementing Coralie’s work.
Animate Chesterfield is a public art initiative delivered by Beam in partnership with Chesterfield Borough Council. It places creativity and community at the heart of regeneration projects in Chesterfield and Staveley. Funding for the sculpture was secured through planning agreements under the council’s percent for art scheme, which continues on a voluntary basis.
“This sculpture is a celebration of Staveley’s heritage and its vibrant community,” said Councillor Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council. “It’s a powerful example of how art can bring people together and create a lasting sense of pride in place.”
The sculpture is expected to be installed later this year. Residents are encouraged to follow its progress and explore the stories and wildlife that inspired its creation.
Learn more about Animate Chesterfield at: www.chesterfield.gov.uk/animate
