TGAC reinvents traditional horticulture with unforgettable fusion

  Located in the gardens of Norwich Research Park (NRP) between TGAC and Centrum, the sculptures were created by Jo Chapman, an East Anglian based artist. Jo was commissioned by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to create a recognisable identity for the new ‘Fresh’ gardens at the 2012 shows and to be used for the following three years. The sculptures are 3D drawings of the Dahlia flower; the concept was to take a traditional flower and reinvent it into a new and dynamic form. The group of three ‘Dahlias’ were beacons to attract visitors into the area and to give it a distinctive focus, the orange and grey colours were selected by the RHS to provide an identity, each tower being painted in a different colourway. Fresh by both name and nature, the Fresh Gardens redefined the perception of a garden. The designs represented physical interpretations of different themes and ideas; they embraced new technology, trends and materials to create an unforgettable fusion of cutting edge design and brilliant horticulture. Samantha Gare, Deputy Show Manager at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, said: “We wanted to create central pieces of art and a fresh brand for the then new ‘Fresh’ gardens and area of the show which began in 2012. Jo’s Dahlia sculptures were a key part in the innovation and originality of the gardens that drew extensive media coverage and captivated visitors. It’s great to know their legacy lives on and can be still enjoyed by the public.” Artist Jo Chapman, said: “After the lifespan they were looking for a new home, as the RHS like to recycle as much as possible from the show, we wanted to do the same for the sculptures. I had a contact at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital to see if they could have the works permanently, they immediately agreed and were passed on to Norwich Research Park and TGAC.” Sarah Cossey, Director of Operations at TGAC, added: “As part of a wider refurbishment project at TGAC, we created new pedestrian access to our reception across an open grassed area on the Park. We were looking to add some sculptures so that the area would be inspirational and relaxing for visitors and staff. When we heard that Jo’s sculptures were available we thought they would be well-suited to this large open space, and fitted well with TGAC’s biological interests given their organic plant designs. Feedback from across the Park has been really positive.” Following the donation of the artwork by the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital to Norwich Research Park, TGAC led the installation of the sculptures as part of the Institute’s landscaping project. ***** For more information, please contact:
Hayley London
Marketing & Communications Officer, The Genome Analysis Centre (TGAC)
T: +44 (0)1603 450107
E: [email protected]