New underpass artwork unveiled in Milton Keynes #mk50

Posted 9th February 2017

Unveiling of the ‘New Griffin’ design in the Conniburrow/Downs Barn underpass with  “Act of Gold”; a community performance celebrating Milton Keynes’ urban heritage as part of Milton Keynes 50th Anniversary.

As part of the “Underpasses: connecting people connecting places” project, On The Verge will unveil the first of two new underpass artworks and host a community performance by 100+ residents and children on Friday 10th February at 2.25pm in the Conniburrow/Downs Barn underpass off Conniburrow Boulevard, under Marlborough Street . The performance will last approximately 15 minutes, followed by refreshments and celebratory activities in the Southwood School Assembly Hall until 3.20pm. Entrance is free and all are invited.

The New Griffin artwork design is inspired by conversations with the community and the accompanying performance will feature the children of Southwood and Germander Park schools and the Conniburrow Community Choir.

This celebration will feature a brief outdoor performance and the unveiling of two interpretation panels within the underpass itself so people are advised to be there by 2.20pm; and then afterward there will be an opportunity to view OTV’s two children publications: ‘Travelling in Time’ and ‘MY MK’, an Underpasses exhibition plus free refreshments and cake at Southwood school until 3.20pm

On The Verge are working in close partnership with local residents, artists and project partners: MK Council, The Parks Trust and the MK City Discovery Centre, to enhance two pedestrian underpasses that link the original CMK estates, with an aim to collectively create a more positive identity and instil greater pride and ownership.  The Heritage Lottery Funded project has commissioned the artists’ collective RARA to work with local residents on the transformation of the Conniburrow/Downs Barn underpass, and later this month, the Fishermead/Oldbrook underpass.