New public artwork unveiled at Haigh Hall walled gardens

The sculpture, titled Snail on Me and created by international artist Anne Duk Hee Jordan, was unveiled in the lower walled gardens at Haigh Hall during a community fun day.

The piece explores themes of biodiversity and climate change and is the second public art installation at Haigh this year.

Councillor Chris Ready, cabinet member for communities at Wigan Council, said: “It was brilliant to see so many local people across the park on Saturday enjoying the workshops, installation from local artists and of course, the new sculpture.

“Despite the weather, people turned out and said how much they liked the new sculpture which is the second public art installation at Haigh this year and part of the wider transformation across the estate.”

The unveiling was part of a wider day of family-friendly activities, including workshops led by artist Anna FC Smith and the programme’s community ambassadors.

Ambassadors Karen Buckels, Marie-Clare Kenyon, Lee McStein, Ryan Millington, and Farai Nhakaniso supported the event with interactive sessions for visitors.

Other highlights included a rain dance by the Kubatana group Everything Human Rights, a pond-dipping activity hosted by Groundworks, and family clay workshops using Haigh clay, led by artist Zephie Begolo.

Two additional art commissions by artists Dustin Lyon and Alison Cooper (Magpahi) were also on display.

Snail on Me was funded by Arts Council England, Art Fund, Vallum Associates, and Wigan Council.

The steelwork was produced and installed by Fish Fabrications, and the surrounding landscaping and pond were created by Horticon.

The installation is part of a wider multi-million-pound restoration of Haigh Hall and its surrounding parkland.

Councillor Ready said: “We can’t wait to continue to see more and more projects coming to fruition at Haigh for people to enjoy.”