Flock

Flock is inspired by the flocking of flights of birds, schools of fish and the swarms of eels, which are synonymous with the Mere and the nearby River Waveney. toyStudio has aimed to respect the local uniqueness of the Mere, complementing the environment it is set to sit in. The main body will have a silver finish, allowing the artwork to catch the colours of its surroundings.  Flock does not only mimic the behaviour of the wildlife, but it also represents the movements of Diss’ own residents. Just as the Mere’s wildlife has migrated to Diss over the years, many different communities have arrived in Diss and explored its culture and heritage.

Flock is formed of a collection of curved, metallic, tubes which vary in length and spiral upwards. Each one of the tubes are designed to represent the individual directions we take within a community and how we move forward together as one. The artwork therefore becomes a metaphor for the community of Diss – “flocking” through life. The sculpture’s overall form responds directly to the Mere, intending to evoke its infamous depth. The artwork will grow from a narrow base, spiralling upwards, expanding in radius as the members disperse.

The local community has been invited to share their stories which will be curated by local Poet and collaborator, Bel Greenwood, which will then be showcased on to part of the Flock installation. Messages will be imprinted onto the flock, giving a place for the community to tell their stories and provide a moment for quiet contemplation and reflection.