Southend-on-Sea City Council unveils new public art trail celebrating local brickfield heritage

October 10, 2024

Southend-on-Sea City Council is excited to announce the upcoming official launch of “Made from this Land,” a public artwork trail by local artist Emma Edmondson, supported by Southend Museums.

The trail celebrates the rich industrial heritage of Southchurch and Thorpe Bay, particularly their historical brickfields, while showcasing the creative talents of the local community. The sculptures are in place now for anyone to see, and it will be officially opened on 20 October 2024 with a walk and talk event which anyone is welcome to attend.

Stretching from the Halfway House to Thorpe Hall Avenue, the trail features three sculptures crafted from over 500 hand-made bricks using Southend clay. Inspired by traditional brick columns and walls from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, these sculptures mark the boundaries of the old brickfields, once a thriving local industry.

Accompanying the sculptures will be informational panels, creating a walking trail that invites residents and visitors alike to explore this hidden chapter of Southend’s heritage.

Over the past two years, Southchurch-based artist Emma Edmondson has engaged the local community through public workshops and collaboration with ceramicists, brickmakers, and historians. Nearly 100 residents contributed to making the handcrafted bricks, reflecting a shared pride in Southend’s history and a collective effort to preserve and celebrate it.

Councillor Matt Dent, cabinet member for culture, tourism, and business, said: “This project beautifully ties together our city’s industrial past with its vibrant cultural present.

"By highlighting the historical significance of Southchurch and Thorpe Bay’s brickfields, we’re celebrating not just our heritage but the creativity and talent of our local community. The council is proud to support initiatives like this that unite art, history, and public engagement so meaningfully.”

For more information about the project and opening event, visit the Focal Point Gallery website.