The unveiling of the Maid Marian statue in Nottingham City Centre is a testament to the city's commitment to celebrating its rich folklore and history. This public artwork, located outside East West Nottingham at Tollhouse Hill/Upper Parliament Street, is a stunning representation of the legendary figure associated with community, resistance, and care for the natural world. The artist, Alicja Biała, has reimagined Marian through native plants, stories, and the people of Nottinghamshire, creating a sculpture that is both visually captivating and deeply rooted in local culture.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this project is the use of native plants, including Nottingham catchfly, English oak, silver birch, hawthorn, bluebell, and common nettle. These species are not only connected to the ecology and folklore of Nottinghamshire woodlands but also symbolize the roots of Nottingham's history, ecology, and communities. The statue stands on a sandstone boulder plinth, further emphasizing its connection to the city's past and present.
The involvement of local groups, including Sutherland House School and the Nottingham Women's Centre, in hands-on workshops led by Alicja Biała, is another remarkable aspect of this project. By exploring medieval making traditions and inviting new interpretations of historical forms, these groups have contributed to the creation of the Maid Marian sculpture. Their physical creations, wax moulds of local flora sourced from Nottinghamshire's landscape, were cast into bronze and used to bring the statue to life.
The launch of the 'OUR MARIAN' exhibition on Friday 17 July at BACKLIT gallery is a celebration of Nottingham's overlooked female folklore figure. The exhibition brings together newly commissioned works across sculpture, film, textile, and fashion, alongside extensive community input that reframes the legendary figure through a contemporary lens. This exhibition is a testament to the power of art to bring people together and celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of Nottingham.
In my opinion, the Maid Marian statue and the 'OUR MARIAN' exhibition are not just public art projects but also powerful symbols of community, history, and cultural identity. They remind us of the importance of preserving and celebrating our local folklore and history, and how art can be a powerful tool for bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging. As a resident of Nottingham, I am proud to see these projects come to life and look forward to seeing how they will continue to shape the city's cultural landscape in the years to come.
