A stunning kingfisher sculpture is making its home in the reopened Stroud Subscription Rooms.
The sculpture, decorated by students at National Star College, is part of the new Kingfisher Trail launched by Cotswolds National Landscape.
The artistic trail is Cotswolds National Landscape’s unique response to aid the creative community’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The Town Council is a passionate supporter of our vibrant town and the incredible environment around us so we are delighted to be sponsoring a sculpture,” said Mayor of Stroud Kevin Cranston.
“We asked for the sculpture by National Star students because last year, when we had some students at the Subs and in the Town Council offices for work experience, we were so impressed with their enthusiasm and professional approach. And they have not disappointed with their amazing creative effort.”
The kingfisher, who the students named Kenny, will make its perch inside the refurbished Sub Rooms.
“It’s a great reason to come into the Subs, meet Kenny, book tickets to one of our great upcoming events and have a look yourself at the amazing changes we have made,” said Hugh Phillimore, Director of the Sub Rooms.
National Star is a specialist college for young people with complex disabilities. Louise Adams, Art tutor at National Star, said the students would be delighted to learn about the kingfisher’s new home.
“How fantastic to be able to say that our sculpture is in a venue where the Beatles once played and is at the centre of the Stroud community,” said Louise.The trail will feature 21 large-scale sculptures which have been creatively interpreted by both established and emerging artists. The kingfisher was chosen based on its reputation as a resilient and adaptable bird — all traits that the community has demonstrated throughout the pandemic.”Do drop into the Subs and have a look at what is going on and do join the Crowdfunder appeal.
The Subs is the jewel of Stroud and, with your support, can be a vibrant entertainment and cultural hub,” said Councillor Cranston.
Find out more about the Crowdfunder on https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/help-the-subs-survive-and-flourishFind out more about the Kingfisher Trail on https://www.kingfishertrail.org