Opening

Yesterday marked the completion of almost a year's work...

Mark Jones giving a speech at Boorley Green public art launch 7 June 2026 Photograph Jo Morley

The Unveiling

The unveiling ceremony, officiated by Richard Gomer, had a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Friends, neighbours, and members of the local community gathered to explore the artwork, enjoying the opportunity to discover its details and recognise their own contributions within it.

Origins

A year ago, I met with Vicky Fear and Kathryn Grimes and Matthew Wanstall to discuss the creation of a celebratory public artwork that would be developed in collaboration with local community groups.

From the outset, Botley Parish Council was enthusiastic about the idea of the piece taking the form of an alternative map of Botley and Boorley Green—one that would celebrate the area's natural landscape, local wildlife, and the many ways people connect with and enjoy the outdoors.

Workshops

Sue and I collaborated with local residents on linocut workshops, including with Botley and Boorley Green WI, Premier Education HAF holiday camp, the local home school community, and visitors to the Revels on the Rec 2025. The brief stipulated that the project should involve local people, valuing local talent and perspectives, and nurturing artistic growth through creativity and innovation.

Memory Map

To commemorate the unveiling, I created Memory Map, a limited edition linocut print of fifteen. Designed as a lasting memento of the project, it allowed participants to take away a physical reminder of the day and the collective journey behind it. The edition will also be available to purchase through my website.

Along Our Way

BOORLEY GREEN COMMUNITY FRIEZE (PROTOTYPE EDITION)
Mixed Media Painting & Print on Panel
Approx. 10 metres in length

Price: £6,700

Concept

The frieze explores ideas of place, familiarity, and collective identity. It translates everyday experiences—paths walked, spaces shared, and local textures—into a layered visual language.

Rather than presenting a single narrative, the work holds multiple perspectives, reflecting the diversity of voices that contributed to its development.

Key Features

Scale: Approx. 10 metres (modular if required)
Medium: Mixed media (paint + print-based processes)
Format: Suitable for long wall display in public or civic spaces
Origin: Developed through community engagement workshops

Suitable For

Schools and academies
Libraries and civic buildings
Council and community spaces
Cultural and arts organisations

The work is particularly suited to environments that value community engagement, place-making, and accessible contemporary art.

Enquiries

For further information, images, or to arrange a viewing:

Mark Jones
markhowardjonesart@gmail.com
07397166978
This prototype is seeking a permanent home.

Reflection

Public art is not simply about making an object; it is about creating a space where people can recognise something of themselves. Sue and I approached this project by letting it grow organically, shaped by the people and places around it. The journey has been marked by many memorable moments—from leading workshops and sharing the excitement of experimental printmaking to the invaluable encouragement and support we have received from businesses and institutions

Quotes

‘Congratulations to Mark, Sue, and everyone in Botley and Boorley Green! What a fabulous achievement - you’ve come together to make something beautiful that represents the community - the people, the buildings, the wildlife …. and the pets!’ Vickie Fear EBC

‘It’s been an honour to work on the project with you - Thank you for bringing my crazy vision to life’ Kat Grimes Communications Officer Botley Parish Council

The frieze now belongs to the community that helped create it.

Community Art in Hampshire: The Boorley Green Frieze Unveiled