A striking new public artwork is set to bring fresh energy to Nottingham this summer, as Nottingham City Council, BACKLIT Gallery, and It’s in Nottingham unveil a landmark sculpture inspired by the legendary Maid Marian.
Created by acclaimed artist Alicja Biała, known for her bold, large-scale works across Europe, the piece will take pride of place in the new rain garden at the corner of Maid Marian Way and Upper Parliament Street—an inviting gateway into the city.
Formed as a delicate silhouette of Maid Marian, the sculpture will be crafted entirely from cast bronze fragments of native Nottinghamshire plants, including English oak, silver birch and bluebell. Set atop a sandstone boulder, the piece will feel rooted in the landscape, shifting in character with the light and seasons to evoke “a living presence shaped by Nottingham’s landscape, folklore and values,” as Alicja explains.
The artwork also invites community involvement, with public workshops at BACKLIT Gallery planned for this year. Councillor Linda Woodings notes the project marks “an important gateway point to the city centre,” while BACKLIT Director Suzanne Golden celebrates Maid Marian’s enduring “courageous and rebellious spirit.”
For the full details and further updates, visit www.mynottinghamnews.co.uk
Image of Alicja Biała courtesy of Joshua Jones.
Drawing of the planned artwork, Maid Marian by Alicja Biała.
