Art Gallery In A Red Phonebox

AN innovative plan by Cambridgeshire villagers to turn a disused phone box into a community art space has been launched in Prickwillow.

AN innovative plan by Cambridgeshire villagers to turn a disused phone box into a community art space has been launched in Prickwillow.

The newly restored red K6 box in the centre of Prickwillow, on the outskirts of Ely, is home to some steel fairies and mushrooms, showcasing the work of local sculptor Pete Baker. Mr Baker has previously exhibited his work in galleries and public spaces across the UK and his diverse influences include Rock & Roll, comic books and the celebrated children’s book artist, Arthur Rackham. The phone box art project is the brainchild of local graphic designer Nick Edell who received enthusiastic backing from his village council.

“We are hoping that this phone box - an iconic English space - will capture community imagination and we?re already very excited about the level of enthusiasm the idea has received,” Mr Edell said.

The council purchased the phone box from BT for just �1 with the only restriction on the sale being that it was not moved. With no funds available for the restoration, a number of villagers stepped in to offer their services for free. Local builder Dave Simpson carried out the bulk of the work using red and black paint leftover from a refurbishment of the village hall. The door lock was fitted by parish councillor Richard Raine and the box was cleaned by district councillor Jackie Petts.

Villagers are planning approximately one show each month and will work alongside Arts Development in East Cambridgeshire (ADeC) on projects.

“Our aim is provide an open art space for local artists, craftspeople, galleries and school children as well as contemporary artists and photographers from further afield,” Mr Edell added.

INFO: If you would like to get involved in the project visit www.thephoneboxgallery.org