Public art installation unveiled at Auckland Tower

1st August 2024

A major outdoor art installation, inspired by England’s oldest stained-glass windows, has been unveiled on the exterior of Auckland Tower in Bishop Auckland.  

Following a nationwide and rigorous selection process, the installation has been created by Bristol-based artist and illustrator James Gibbs and nine arched panels taking inspiration from St Peter’s Chapel at Auckland Castle and the 12^th Century-stained glass windows of Canterbury Cathedral, have been installed to bring colour and creativity to the modern building that overlooks Auckland Castle. 

Visitors will travel through almost 2000 years of history as the designs depict architectural and natural elements of the surrounding landscape which is at the centre of the story. Passers-by and visitors can see the celebration the rich history of Bishop Auckland, from the Roman fort of Binchester to the mining decades and the modern day, highlighting the buildings found in the County Durham town. 

James Gibbs, the artist, said: “There is such a wealth of knowledge at The Auckland Project, and I have really enjoyed working on these pieces. I hope visitors see the artwork and take a journey through the ages with us - from the Roman fort of Binchester, to current day Bishop Auckland. To create art like this is such a privilege and I hope everybody enjoys it.” 

The artwork can be viewed on the exterior of the Auckland Tower which was designed by renowned architect Niall McLaughlin and opened to the public as a 15 metre high viewing platform and visitor hub in 2018. 

Jane Ruffer, Co-Founder of The Auckland Project, was involved in the design process of the panels, she said: “We’re so pleased to commission art by James, as he really impressed us at an early stage, producing a coherent, unique and beautiful plan for all the panels. We particularly loved the mix of architectural and natural features. 

"The bright panels include recognisable features with a mix of colours that are eye-catching but complementary to Auckland Tower. We believe the panels will help onlookers engage with the area and its many stories that are thoughtfully mapped out above them. Accessibility to art is a hugely important part of The Auckland Project’s mission and this piece for all to see is a wonderful addition to the area.” 

The Auckland Project tells the remarkable story of Bishop Auckland, from the powerful Prince Bishops of Durham to the town’s surprising connection to the Golden Age of Spanish Art.   The Auckland Project Unlimited Pass costs £30 for adults, £45 for a family of one adult and up to four children, and £75 for a family of two adults and up to four children.