New sculptures taking inspiration from Newhaven’s industrial heritage unveiled

Award-winning Sussex creative Richard Wolfströme has had a series of sculptural artworks unveiled in Avis Way.

Newhaven Enterprise Zone (NEZ) wants the artworks to help raise the profile of the town and attract further investment, making it a more enjoyable space for workers, locals and visitors.

The industrial and business estate is now home to a giant A-shaped concrete sculpture and chrome lettering spelling out ‘Avis Way’, with supersized ‘A’ and ‘W’ concrete shapes. As part of the sculpture, there are cubes with timber seating and moulded quotes by notable historical figures such as Hemmingway, Gandhi and Einstein.

The sculptures have been created to proudly reflect Newhaven’s heritage. Concrete, steel and wood combined with bold text celebrate Newhaven’s history as a centre for industry.

Mr Wolfströme said: “The artwork in Avis Way is designed to give the people who work and visit the business estate an attractive place to sit and enjoy being outside in an open space. I hope the ‘place’ quotations are inspiring and give people pause for thought as they take time out of their busy schedules. I’m really proud of the work, which features a bold use of materials and an unfussy look. It feels like a true representation of Avis Way and Newhaven, which is robust and creative, and taps into the town’s industrial nature and style while having something important to say.”

The sculptures have been installed on a green space outside global lighting company Sylvania, which gave its permission for the site to be used and for the wider community to enjoy.

Corinne Day, NEZ programme director, said: “Richard Wolfströme’s wonderful work perfectly encapsulates what we’re working hard to achieve here in Newhaven. We have a culture and heritage to rival any of our neighbours. Newhaven has a long and interesting industrial heritage which stretches back centuries and today it’s stronger than ever. Newhaven is a town with a big heart, a strong sense of community and a determination to reach new heights. That’s what makes it so appealing to businesses and creative communities. We offer something different on the south coast: greater affordability for people and businesses, real energy and creative inspiration.”

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