Inspiring Views Artwork Commission
A new Sculptural Bench for the Inspiring Views Programme
We are inviting applications for a new commission on the North Downs Way National Trail at Colley Hill in East Surrey. This National Trust location boasts incredible views as well as a varied and interesting history.
Over the past ten years, we have commissioned permanent artworks to celebrate far reaching views along major trails in Surrey. The Inspiring Views programme includes conservation work, improved access and site-specific artworks that incorporate an opportunity for rest. The programme also connects to the North Downs Way Art Trail which runs through Surrey and Kent. The artworks provide a reason to visit, pause and appreciate each specific location while encouraging interaction from visitors.
Fee: £13,000 inclusive of materials, meetings and travel. There is an additional fee for community engagement.
Brief: The selected artwork will include an opportunity for rest, demonstrate high quality, consider the local environment in the materials used, and celebrate the unique identity of the site in a contemporary but accessible way. We are open to there being an interactive element or the ability for people to submit wording and commemorations to include in the design.
The artwork will be installed before the end of March 2027.
The artwork should be:
• Relevant to the cultural and environmental context of the area
• Thought provoking and educational
• Constructed in natural, locally sourced materials or recycled materials where possible • Durable and requiring minimal maintenance
• Safe and not constitute a hazard to public or the environment
• Environmentally sustainable
• Considerate for people with different disabilities
How to Apply:
Artists/craftspeople must send the following on one pdf document to ali.clarke@surreycc.gov.uk :
- Current CV with two references and website link
- Up to six images of relevant work
- Expression of interest including initial ideas and ways of working.
Deadline for submissions: 20th July 2026
Online interviews: 22nd August 2026.
A panel consisting of the Surrey Hills Arts Programme Manager, the North Downs Way Trail Manager, National Trust Senior Ranger and the Surrey Hills National Landscape Director will select the artist.
Surrey Hills Arts and Surrey County Council are committed to ensuring equality. We consider diversity a strength and are keen to make the artists we work with more representative of different backgrounds and experiences. We encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or minority ethnic, young, disabled, LGBTQI+, working class, or living or working in areas of socioeconomic deprivation in our region
Location
Colley Hill
What 3 Words: lives.bank.branch
Nearest Parking: National Trust car park at Margery Wood. Margery Ln, Tadworth KT20 7EJ. From the car park, take the footbridge across the M25, walk through the woods and turn right along the North Downs Way to the location at the viewpoint.
The Brief
Download the brief for full details Artist’s Brief
Local History
There is so much inspiration in this location. Archaeologists have found neolithic flint tools on the hill indicating early human activity. Directly north is an impressive water tower and to the East is Reigate Fort built in 1898 as part of the London Defence Scheme. South of Colley Hill are Reigate Caves. The industrial history includes Medieval and Victorian raw material extraction. Many of London’s old buildings are built with Reigate stone. The site is on the North Downs Way with a rich pilgrimage heritage.