A Unique Art Installation in Sunderland
A groundbreaking art installation is set to captivate the public and become a central feature of a new cultural hub in Sunderland. This innovative piece, titled Timepiece, will be showcased at Culture House Sunderland, a major new venue located in Keel Square.
Timepiece is a dynamic and ever-changing artwork that will be displayed in the atrium of Culture House Sunderland, where it will be visible on the hour every hour for an entire year. The project is being developed by a team of talented artists: Ross Millard, a musician and sound artist from The Futureheads; Jeremy Bradfield, a video artist and sound designer; and Ben Lawrence, a creative technologist. Together, they are working to create an immersive experience that reflects the history and identity of Sunderland.
Peter McIntyre, executive director of Economy and Place at Sunderland City Council, expressed his excitement about the project, stating:
“We’re delighted to be able to announce these three fantastic artists, all of whom have a connection to the North East, who will come together to bring this installation to Culture House Sunderland. The building’s atrium will be a spectacular, welcoming space for residents and visitors and this will add to their experience. As well as being a lovely place for people to meet and take part in activities, Culture House Sunderland will bring exciting, cutting-edge showcases to the city.”
Exploring the Stories of Sunderland
The installation will use a mix of archive images, footage, audio, field recordings, and composed music to tell the story of Sunderland. It will evolve over time, offering a unique perspective on the city’s past, present, and future. Each hour, a special moment will be created to highlight different aspects of Sunderland’s rich heritage and ongoing development.
Residents of Sunderland are encouraged to participate in the project by submitting their own photos. These images will be incorporated into Timepiece, helping to shape the narrative of the installation. The artists are specifically looking for photographs and selfies of people in front of well-known landmarks, celebrating festivals, or capturing moments of work and family life in the city.
A Cultural Hub for the Future
Culture House Sunderland is scheduled to open in late spring 2026. Once completed, the venue will serve as a vibrant space for a wide range of events, exhibitions, and activities. The gallery spaces will host a variety of exhibitions throughout the year, featuring both national and local talent. This initiative aims to bring new and exciting experiences to the city, fostering a sense of community and creativity.
How to Get Involved
Those interested in contributing to Timepiece can upload their photos through a dedicated online platform. The submission portal is available at https://livingarchive.net/client/submit/7Red2z2a. This opportunity allows members of the public to play a direct role in shaping the artwork and ensuring that the stories of Sunderland are preserved and shared with future generations.
About the Project
Timepiece is commissioned as part of the Digital Spaces initiative, which is supported by The Space in association with Arts Council England. This collaboration highlights the importance of digital technology in contemporary art and its potential to engage audiences in new and meaningful ways. The project exemplifies how art can be used to connect people with their environment and each other, creating a lasting legacy for the city of Sunderland.
