The central sculpture, which stands at 15m tall, has been named the ‘Mater’ (Mother) Rose, while the two additional 12m sculptures flanking it have been named the ‘Pruna’ (Glowing Coal) Rose and ‘Vitrum’ (Glass) Rose, honouring the borough’s industrial heritage.

To inform their commission, the team from Artin Light in collaboration with Jamie House, first delivered a community engagement installation at Barnsley Bright Nights. Feedback from this session initiated the idea of these new sculptures expressing the voice of the town. 

This was followed by the recording of many different voices from Barnsley to gather stories which evolved into creating a character and a spirit for each of the roses.

The final show saw each rose introduce themselves using sound and light accompanied by a soundscape created by Matthew Williams (Hazard Media) that truly brought the roses to life as a striking symbol of Barnsley’s new Tech Town status and the fostering of a new connection with residents.

The team, in collaboration with Chris Hughes, also delivered a workshop with Barnsley College providing opportunities for students to learn about sound recordings and a second session exploring different aspects of sound, light and music through an improvisation jam with DJ Nik Nak and Stuart Alexander from Artin Light.

Councillor Sir Stephen Houghton CBE, Leader of Barnsley Council, said:

“The Yorkshire Rose sculptures are an incredible addition to our town centre and will be a proud symbol of our new status as the UK’s first government-backed Tech Town as well as driving forward the ambition from our Inclusive Economic Growth Strategy of being the UK’s leading digital town.”

The concept for the Yorkshire Roses sculptures was designed by Tim Ward (Circling the Square) and the fabrication and installation was realised by Stage One. The roses will continue to be animated for future events and to mark annual celebrations and commemorations.

Image and film credit: Barnsley Council.