Electrical boxes in Dunstable

As Middle Row Markets continue to grow year after year and with the addition of specialty markets, I noticed how plain the electrical boxes were in The Square and Middle Row. I had seen that other towns had painted or put a design on their electric box’s and wanted to do something special with ours in Dunstable. So, when Dunstable Town Council was awarded capital funding via Central Bedfordshire Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, I saw how an idea could become a reality.

I loved the ideas proposed by The Dunstable Heritage Textiles Group and invited them to create designs for all four boxes. Their work has transformed these once-ordinary structures into stunning pieces of public art. I think they look fantastic and have asked the group what inspirations are behind their designs.

Their 2024 project, Patterns of Dunstable, allowed members to create individual pieces inspired by local landmarks. These designs were then collaged into a collective artwork, now displayed on four electrical boxes in Ashton Square and Middle Row.

Artists and their contributions.

• Anne Kermarrec contributed two pieces, textile map of central Dunstable, created using appliqué and embroidery and a woven map of the area.

• Joanne Bowes used appliqué and embroidery to depict the William Mitchell sculpture in the Quadrant.

• Trish Evison drew inspiration from the architectural features of Edwardian houses, particularly plaster lintels above windows and doors.

• Barbara Graham based her artwork on the letters of “Dunstable.”

• Jan Drury created an aerial view of Staines Square.

• Emma Blackie and Annette Barson were inspired by coal hole covers found in Regent Street and Albion Street.

• Cally Barker took inspiration from nature during her walks on Dunstable Downs

Together, these talented artists have created a unique public artwork for everyone to enjoy in Middle Row and The Square. Take a walk around town and see if you can spot the inspirations behind this remarkable collaborative piece.

If you’re interested in joining The Dunstable Heritage Textiles Group, they meet on Thursday mornings at the library.