The Poacher Line CRP along with East Midlands Railway (EMR) has unveiled a new 27 metre piece of artwork at Boston station for passengers to enjoy as they visit and travel through.
- ‘Continuity Connections’ artwork created by artist Alisha Miller
- Inspired and created in conjunction with local community
- Project funded by Community Rail Network (CRN), CrossCountry Trains, Lincolnshire County Council and the Poacher Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP)
The artwork is located on platform 2 and was inspired by the Poacher Line; from the bustling city of Nottingham through to the seaside town of Skegness.
Artist Alisha Miller spent several months travelling the line chatting with passengers, conductors and rail staff asking the question: “Tell me something surprising about travelling on the Poacher Line?” All which helped the artist build up a picture of this eclectic railway line.
This artwork is a composition of those conversations and images, gathered during the many hours of looking through windows and hopping off to explore the sites, visiting museums and meeting people along the way; an insight from those who live and work within.
The artwork is the beginning of a revamp of Boston station, which has recently gained 15 new station adopters. Over the next few months, the station adopters will be busy installing new planters and the Poacher Line CRP have further plans to add some artwork to the front of the station in 2021.
Jo Andrews, Community Rail Officer for the Poacher Line said: "We are thrilled to have been able to work with Alisha to commission this impressive installation which showcases the diversity of the Poacher Line and highlights the importance of the railway in connecting communities.
“Over the next two years Boston station will see major redevelopment and this artwork is the first of many improvements which will enhance the station and will be enjoyed by those passing through for many years to come.
“I would like to thank our partners at East Midlands Railway and Network Rail for helping bring this idea to life and a huge thank you to Community Rail Network, CrossCountry and Lincolnshire County Council for funding this project."
Donna Adams, Community Engagement Manager for EMR said: “The artwork will brighten up the station for our passengers and help create a more colourful and interesting space.
“Railways have always played a vital role within local communities and they become better gateways when communities are engaged in making them more welcoming for passengers and visitors. “
Paul Webster, Community Rail Support Manager for CRN said: "Community Rail Network are pleased to have been able to support this fantastic project at Boston station through the DfT Community Rail Development Fund.
"Every railway station has a story to tell and this magnificent artwork certainly tells both the story of Boston and of the whole Poacher Line, one of 72 community rail lines across the railway network. There is so much to see on this scenic community rail line and we are sure this artwork will add an extra dimension and inspire journeys for passengers using the station and visiting the town."
Alisha Miller, Artist said: "This project is about the absolute belief that art can enhance our public spaces and that people who use and work in the spaces are integral to the creative process of the artwork.
"The conception of this been supported wholehearted by people who are passionate about their local spaces and the transport service. ‘Continuity Connections’ is my longest public artwork to date, stretching 27m along Boston station platform, capturing moments, conversations, history and the natural world of the unique Poacher Line".