University of Bolton students create Anderton Centre art trail

University of Bolton students have created the trail made up of sculptures, dioramas and paintings, at an outdoor activity centre.

Second-year art students were given the task of reflecting the history, geography or natural environment of the Anderton Centre at the Rivington Reservoir.

Together they created a trail of workshops, sculptures, dioramas and paintings that will act as a semi-permanent installation around the centre.

Fine art lecturer Neil Greenhalgh said: “It was especially pleasing to see such creative responses from all the students at the proposal stage.

“Each student proposed their idea for this live brief to David Germain, the CEO of the Anderton Centre, earlier in the semester and we were delighted to see such creative and thoughtful responses.”

Fine art is now on display (Image: University of Bolton)

Mr Greenhalgh, who is also lead for the public engagement module on the course said this was a vital way for students to engage with the outside world beyond the lecture hall.

He said: “It is so important for students to gain experience with live briefs, and work with organisations outside the University.

“In fine art we are passionate about helping students gain the sort of skills and experience they will need to become professionals after graduation.”

The trail will be added to over the coming years (Image: University of Bolton)

The trail the students created is now open for anyone to visit by appointment or as part of an organised visit to the centre, which is part of the University of Bolton group.

Artist Natalie Owen said: “The Anderton Centre is the perfect place to visit from a gentle stroll around the area to kayaking, paddle boarding, abseiling and many more activities.”

Hers and other artworks are now set to be added to over the coming years.

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Exhibiting artist Pauline Holt said: “It is a fabulous opportunity for students to launch this art trail which will be added to over the coming years and enable them to exhibit their art in the public field.”

 All the artwork and workshops will now be displayed and delivered at the Anderton Centre and the surrounding woodland.

Anderton Centre CEO David Germaine said: “Students have been able to work on live briefs and gain additional employability skills, as well as industry experience.

“The work is fantastic and has really added to the Anderton experience.”