The sculpture takes inspiration from the incredible sail of the historic ‘Cuckoo boats’. These boats were pulled by horses and were the only boats with sails on the Canal. They were called ‘Cuckoo Boats’ due to how unusual they looked on the canal, like a baby cuckoo looking out of place amongst the chicks of another bird. They could sail onto the river Trent and out to sea. They were unique to the Chesterfield Canal and showcase the great ingenuity and courage of local people. 

Coralie said:

“I am inspired by the brave ancestors of Staveley’s communities who fearlessly navigated from the canal out to sea in barges with sails called cuckoo boats. 

I wanted the communities I worked with to understand how amazingly ambitious and intelligent these ancestors were. How important the canal was to life in Staveley and also to learn about the wildlife there.”

The sections of the sail represent cell structures, leaf veins and natural forms. Wildlife that you can find around the Canal is featured on both sides, created using hand cut mosaic techniques. 

Coralie would like to thank the residents and young people in the community who she engaged with to develop the idea. Pupils from Staveley Junior School and Netherthorpe School also created mini mosaic artworks which have been installed, to create a sculptural design and mosaic unique to Staveley.

Find out more about Coralie Turpin.

Photo credits: Chesterfield Council.