A nine-foot illuminated puppet is to be co-created with Fleetwood residents as part of an innovative community arts project.’
The ‘Spirit of Fleetwood’ figure will be put together through a series of free, inclusive workshops across the town and the surrounding area.
Led by artist Janine Walker for Fleetwood Arts CIC, the workshops will bring people together to build a striking, weather-resistant puppet using sustainable materials.
The first workshop is coming up on Wednesday May 13 from 9:30am to 12noon at Strive Community Cafe, based at Flakefleet Primary School on Northfleet Avenue.
Janine said: “We’d love to hear what you think should decorate her skirt.
“Think Fleetwood landmarks, iconic people, places and organisations and the historical and cultural moments that make this town special.
“Let’s make ‘Spirit of Fleetwood’ a true emblem of Fleetwood’s past, present, and future!”
Sessions will cover structural making, batik textile panels, surface decoration, and simple lighting elements.
Stories, symbols, and reflections connected to Fleetwood and its coastline will be woven into the puppet’s skirt and cloak, making her a true emblem of this place and its people.
Designed to be operated by a single puppeteer from within, with rod-controlled arms, the finished figure will be involved in various community events, lantern parades and light festivals.
Janine added: “It’s our hope that Spirit of Fleetwood will become a cherished shared asset, reappearing at local celebrations for years to come.
Charity fun run hits fundraising record
New sea defences planned for north Blackpool and Bispham
Man in a duck walks England
Major update on Silicon Sands project set to bring mass job creation
Major new developments for block including Slug & Lettuce
Resort school submits fresh plans for new classroom building
