A COLOURFUL array of unique art birdboxes made by locals are brightening up Gallery Oldham until May 2 before being moved to key spots across the community.
Each box was designed and made a participant – whose ages ranged from seven to 97 years old – as part of the ‘Abirdabode’ art and environmental project across the borough.
The scheme is the brainchild ofartists Richard Dawson and Jacqui Symons who have been working with groups, including children, the elderly and people with learning disabilities, since 2014.
Now, the birdboxes are on display until May 2 so everyone can admire the bright and inventive designs all in one place for themselves.
There are also a range of creative decorated bird silhouettes created by members of the public at the Oldham Flower Festival, Festival Oldham and RSPB Discovery Sunday which are also on display.
After the exhibition, the boxes will be installed around Oldham to provide safe – and stylish – nest sites for birds as part of a new Oldham Art Birdbox Trail.
The Dovestone Youth Rangers spent three months working on their birdboxes, choosing their own designs and making the bird boxes from scratch.
The extraordinary ideas ranged from Jack Skellington from the movie ‘The Nightmare Before Christmas’ and Marvels ‘Iron Man’ to a castle with a dragon and a ‘pop art’ style box.
Jake, a member of the Youth Rangers for almost two years, combined a collection of different sized squares to create his contemporary bird box.
He said: “I thought it would be simple but it isn’t. I’ve enjoyed making everything from scratch and putting it together.”
Zac – who designed an art deco box, added: “I’ve really enjoyed shaping and drilling and I feel really proud now it’s done.
“I will donate mine to Dr Kershaws where my Nan was so I am doing my best to get it right.”
Greg Cookson, who lead the project for the Dovestone Youth Rangers, said: “They are the best bird boxes you have ever seen, they have come up with great ideas.
“It has given the young people an opportunity to be creative and to explore new ideas while gaining new skills such as using power tools, wood design and painting.”
Find out more about Abirdabode on Facebook and Twitter or email hello@abirdabode.co.uk or ring Richard on: 07801837281
Any schools, community groups or individuals who have somewhere that would benefit from an art birdbox please nominate a location by emailing hello@abirdabode.co.uk or at the exhibition.
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