Basingstoke has a sculpture charity art trail this summer. Less than two years have gone since I moved from Basingstoke, so of course, this was poor timing. Last weekend, I headed down to Basingstoke in order to catch up with a friend as well as to see as much of the trail as I could. The trail, "Sitting for Jane", celebrates the life of author Jane Austin, who was from the area, and the sculptures are shaped as giant books formed into benches. This year marks 200 years since the death of the author. The aim of the trail is to increase visitors to Basingstoke and to raise £50,000 for local Basingstoke community charities.
Promenade - Laura Fearn
Although she was born near Basingstoke, Austin spent time in Southampton and also in Bath, and some of the book benches in the trail made me feel homesick, like the one above, which looks like the row of houses that I lived in and could view from my window. (My view was over the Royal Crescent.) I do miss my time in Bath.
Beyond the Birdcage - Katy Stevens
Female Power - Fatima Pantoja
The Golden Peacock - Sian Storey
The above book bench is inspired by the famous 1894 cover of "Pride and Prejudice". It is located in Eastrop Park, a short walk away from my flat. The park has a nice lake where boats can be hired and nice grounds with flowers to walk around.
A Fine House Richly Furnished - Jonathan Chapman
Chatsworth House in the Peak District inspired this artwork because it is the real-life home that inspired Mr. Darcy's home and is also used in films.
The House that Jane Built - Jane Callan
The above book bench shows a Regency doll's house made up of several rooms during Jane Austin's era. I thought that this was a creative piece.
Jane Talk - Jenny Leonard
Hearts - Deven Bhurke
The "Sitting with Jane" art sculpture trail is located in Basingstoke until the the end of next weekend. For more information, view the official website at http://www.sittingwithjane.com
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