Conversation Piece
Art on the Riverside was the largest programme of public art in the UK. Funded by a £3.5m National Lottery grant and £2.7m from the public and private sectors, the programme was set up in 1995 and consists of a large range of artworks and design features. These were sited along the banks of the Rivers Tyne and Wear by local and internationally known artists.
Juan Munoz sited the figures that make up 'Conversation Piece' temporarily in Berwick upon Tweed as part of the celebrations for the 1996 Year of Visual Arts. The 22 part sculpture was cast in bronze and found a permanent home at the mouth of the Tyne in South Shields through the Art on the Riverside Programme.
'Conversation Piece' now stands as a magnificent gateway to South Tyneside and is a great favourite with visitors who 'eavesdrop' on the mysterious group of bronze figures.
Programme
Art on the Riverside
Artist(s)
Juan Munoz.
Client
Tyne and Wear Development Corporation
Location
South Shields
Project Management
South Tyneside Metropolitan Borough Council
Completion Date
1999
