WATCH: "Where art and people come together"

Saturday 07 December 2019

Travellers queuing for Guernsey Airport security can now enjoy entertainment from passing musicians, thanks to a new public piece of art.

The Guernsey Arts Commission came up with the idea for a public piano at the terminal over a year ago, and invited artists in the island to submit their ideas for its design.

Pictured: Chris Simcox's winning piano design.

The entries were narrowed down to a final three, which were put to a public vote.

Chris Simcox's design came out on top and he spent the summer working on the piano, which is now finished. His art depicts the walk through of a Guernsey landscape from dawn to dusk, featuring bright colours and local landmarks.

Pictured: Alan West playing the newly unveiled piano.

"I've been on the island for about 12 years now," he explained. "I really enjoy Guernsey and the fresh air and the landscape, and I thought it would be nice to create something that's a wrap-around piano. It tells a story of day to night, because it's so different at different times of the day.

"I'm interested in colour, line and shape in the context of the landscapes that surround us, whether it's urban or the natural environment. This kind of leads me to become fascinated with mixing shapes and constructions with the playful use of colour, texture and line. I also have a keen interest in illustration, graphic design and drawing, especially birds."

Video: Keith Bowering, Alan West, Ann Mulvey, Adrian Tostevin and Hannah Beacom entertained at the piano's unveiling.

In celebration of the new artwork, which was sponsored by the Guernsey Arts Foundation, a number of the island's musicians joined together for a short performance.

"The Arts Commission is a big champion of art in public places, making art visible and accessible," said Head of Arts Development, Russ Fossey. "To have the opportunity to bring a musical instrument and turn it into a piece of art is an opportunity we couldn't miss. For people coming and going from the airport, whenever there's a pianist around and they've got a few minutes they can entertain their fellow travellers.

"It sends a message that the island is full of interesting artists and very culturally vibrant. Seeing it as soon as you arrive or when you leave reminds you of that."