A Time for Reflection in Sunniside Gardens

Sunderland’s past, present and future is to be reflected in Sunniside Gardens through a mirror sculpture symbolising the city’s heritage and its regeneration.

The sculpture was designed by former Sunderland University lecturer Laura Johnson, 45, who has used mirror surfaces to reflect the people and environment of Sunniside. Made by Clifford Chapman Metalworks in Washington, it is based on the hull of a ship to acknowledge the presence of many ship builders and owners who lived within the terraces of Sunniside in the 19th century. The glass element also represents another important part of Sunderland’s industrial heritage.

Mary Eileen Featherstonhaugh, the great granddaughter of one of Sunderland’s greatest ship builders Sir James Laing, said she was delighted that memories of her family’s industry would live on in a revitalised and beautiful part of the City.

Sir James was the owner of the famous Laing shipyard, which built some of the most prestigious vessels of the 19th and 20th century. He took over the running of the family business in 1843 at the age of just 20 and went on to make it a world-wide success.

Miss Featherstonhaugh said: “I am really pleased that Sunderland’s shipbuilding history is being remembered in this way and I know that my great grandfather would be proud.”

Laura said she learnt a lot about the links between ships and glass while researching the area for her project.

She added: “It was this link that formed the base of my design. I also wanted it to literally reflect the real spirit of the City of Sunderland and its people.

“The City has undergone some huge changes. Sunniside was obviously a very grand place that is now re-emerging in a different and very exciting form.”

Sunniside is currently part of a £130m regeneration scheme, which will transform the area into a thriving cultural quarter. Already scores of artists have taken advantage of the wealth of opportunity the area has to offer. A new £6m arts and business centre called thePlace will also open in Sunniside later this year.

Councillor Bryan Charlton, a board member of Sunniside Partnership, said: “The sculpture forms part of the ongoing artistic work taking place in and around the gardens which is creating a real buzz around Sunniside.”

Sunniside Partnership’s commissioning of Laura Johnston’s sculpture is being mirrored across the city, with Sunderland City Council and its partners embarking on an exciting programme of public art commissions that have the potential to transform the city’s image. Projects under development include major schemes for the Sunderland Empire Flytower; C2C cycle route between the Wearmouth Bridge and Roker Beach; and the new Sunderland Aquatic Centre.