We are looking for an Artist Facilitator for this year's Athelstan1100
Project Title
The Crown of Athelstan
Project Role
Tamworth Castle is seeking an Artist Facilitator to design, construct, and install a large crown made from willow or other similar sustainable materials to commemorate the Athelstan 1100 Celebrations in July 2025. This project is generously funded by Arts & Travel, a company based in Lichfield, specialising in bespoke travel arrangements for the art world.
The crown will be installed at St. Editha’s Church in Tamworth and unveiled at the Athelstan 1100 Celebrations on 19 July 2025. The Artist Facilitator will be responsible for leading the project from concept to installation, creating a historically inspired and visually striking artwork to mark this significant anniversary.
As part of the project, the Artist Facilitator will run four half-day workshops at local venues in Tamworth, engaging community members in the creative process. These workshops will focus on crafting decorative elements for the crown using sustainable materials such as textiles, clay, or other suitable craft materials. This hands-on community involvement will celebrate Athelstan’s legacy and create a meaningful connection between history, art, and local participation.
The artwork will be suspended from the ceiling of St. Editha’s Church and will have approximate dimensions of 3 metres in diameter and 2 metres in height. The design must be scalable and secure, ensuring it is visually impactful, safe for suspension, and in keeping with the Saxon heritage themes.
Project Background
This project is led by Tamworth Castle, with funding generously provided by Arts & Travel, Lichfield. The Athelstan 1100 Celebrations will mark the 1100th anniversary of King Athelstan’s reign, with a series of events and exhibitions taking place across Tamworth throughout July 2025. The installation of the crown will serve as a key artistic and cultural symbol, celebrating King Athelstan’s legacy and Tamworth’s role in Saxon history. 2
Project Information
The Artist Facilitator will be responsible for designing a large-scale crown installation that is visually captivating, structurally secure, and suitable for suspension at St. Editha’s Church. The crown will be a focal point of the celebrations, symbolising leadership, heritage, and Saxon craftsmanship.
The artwork should embody the following principles:
- Historic: Reflecting King Athelstan’s legacy and Tamworth’s Saxon heritage.
- Symbolic: Representing royal heritage, leadership, and community engagement.
- Engaging: Offering a memorable and interactive experience for visitors.
The Artist Facilitator should incorporate sustainable materials and practices throughout the design and fabrication process. The final crown must be securely suspended and fit within the aesthetic and structural constraints of St. Editha’s Church.
Expected Timeline
- Monday 14th April 2025 – Submission deadline for Expressions of Interest.
- Wednesday 30th April 2025 – Online discussion session (via Microsoft Teams) with shortlisted candidates. If invited, you will be asked to:
- Provide a basic outline of your ideas for the crown design and a budget breakdown.
- Participate in a discussion with Castle staff (discussion questions will be shared in advance).
- May – June 2025 – Design and construction phase.
- July 2025 – Community workshops to create decorative elements for the crown.
- Week commencing 14 July 2025 – Completion and installation.
- 19 July 2025 – Official unveiling at the Athelstan 1100 Celebrations
Response to the Brief
Please read the full project brief before submitting your expression of interest. We kindly request the following by 5pm on Monday, 14th April 2025:
- An Expression of Interest (maximum 500 words), including a basic outline of your ideas for the crown design and a budget breakdown.
- A mini portfolio (up to 5 relevant pieces).
- An overview of your relevant experience (maximum 2 sides of A4).
Please send your application via email to: [email protected] with the subject heading: ‘Athelstan 1100 Artist Facilitator Application’.
Alternatively, send applications by post to:
Emma Carter,
Tamworth Castle,
Tamworth,
Staffordshire. B79 7NA
For queries, please contact Emma Carter, Heritage Engagement Coordinator, on 07976 475071 or email [email protected]
