06/08/2026
: The Past Inspires the Future
Heritage has always shaped the work we commission at Beam over our 40 year history. Artists working with us often start by learning about a place, its hidden histories and the people who came before. That understanding becomes the foundation for new public art that builds pride, connection and a stronger sense of place, for local people and visitors alike, as they look to the future.
Some ways artists have linked past and present:
Featherstone War Horse by Codsteaks commemorates those lost from the town in WW1, set within a newly planted woodland for quiet reflection.
Walking Together by Broadbent Studio remembers the men who died in disasters at Markham Colliery and celebrates the strength of mining communities.
Colour Forms by Lenny & Whale at Wentworth Castle Gardens celebrates Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, who brought smallpox inoculation to England from Turkey in 1721, reflecting on its relevance during Covid-19.
The Mute Still Air, a sound artwork by Ed Carter with Grimethorpe Colliery Band at Elsecar Heritage Centre, draws on Elsecarโs history of industrial innovation.
Audacter et Sincere, a mural by Cbloxx in Castleford, celebrates key eras in the townโs history right up to the present day.
One of our biggest heritage programmes was the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site Great Place Scheme, where we commissioned 105 creative practitioners and engaged 7,500 participants through workshops, pop-ups, installations, performance and digital content. Each commission connected artists to a specific place, working with heritage venues and community partners to build lasting capacity for future creative projects.
A key commission was Mr Arkwright by Jo Fairfax at Cromford Mills, a water and cycle-powered drawing machine inspired by Richard Arkwrightโs water-frame. Where his machine spun thread, this one creates drawings.
From stories of people and place to memorials and industrial innovation, these projects show how looking back helps build stronger, more connected places for the future.
