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Artwork offers vibrant welcome at city station

Louise ParryBuckinghamshire
News imageAndy Stagg An aerial shot of Station Square with the new artwork. It is shaped in a circle that is edged with tall trees. Concentric circles show vivid patterns of yellow, lime green, fuschia pink and blue. Two red-and-white striped walkways lead out from the circle to two underpasses. Outside the circle are tall flagpoles with various flags, and on either side are large grass squares.Andy Stagg
The red and white striped patterns direct pedestrians to the underpasses while the whole piece creates a vibrant welcome to Milton Keynes

A vibrant Nigerian-style artwork has been unveiled outside a city's main railway station, with the aim of welcoming passengers.

Walk With Your Dreams, designed by British Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori, has been integrated into Station Square in Milton Keynes.

It also helps direct pedestrians towards two underpasses that lead from the station to the nearby city centre.

Milton Keynes councillor Shanika Mahendran said: "This is much more than a stunning piece of art, it's a real celebration of our city's creativity and diversity."

News imageStephen Chung Yinka stands in front of the flower artwork, smiling at the camera. He wears an orange coat over a white hoody, and a blue peaked cap.Stephen Chung
Yinka has also created playful public art in Helsinki and New York

A showcase to unveil the artwork took place on Thursday, with performances from local musicians, poets and dancers.

Mr Ilori said: "With a thriving Nigerian community and growing arts scene, Milton Keynes is a location that aligns with my values of bringing art to wider audiences and to fostering connection and community."

The project was commissioned by Milton Keynes Development Partnership (MKDP) and Milton Keynes City Council.

It also includes new plants around the station in a bid to increase biodiversity.

News imageChris Henley MK station building, which is wide and shiny and reflects some of the trees opposite it. The station forecourt displays the artwork: a large circle on the floor coloured bright pink, yellow and blue. A tall black pole with a clock on top is in the the circle, and in the centre of the photo. Shrubs and trees surround the circle. Some painter in high vis jackets are working on the painting.Chris Henley
It is hoped the project will create a strong impression and welcome visitors arriving in Milton Keynes

Ms Mahendran, cabinet member for planning and placemaking, said: "Station Square is the gateway to our city and this installation welcomes everyone with colour, culture and inspiration."

Chair of MKDP Nicola Sawford said: "Station Square is an incredibly important space and complements our wider plans to create a modern and deserving city centre, including our proposals to create a new live entertainment and events venue at the Old Bus Station.

"Bringing these projects together will give local people public spaces they can be proud of and create a strong first impression to our growing city."

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