Work begins on public artwork in Kings Hill

The artwork is being installed in Orchard Park, Kings Hill, and will act as a meeting point for the community

Work has begun on the installation of a major new piece of public art near West Malling in Kent.

Named 'Slices of Peace', the artwork in Kings Hill consists of a giant multicoloured metallic apple, five metres (16 feet) in diameter, surrounded by two smaller apples.

The piece is commissioned from British-Nigerian artist and designer Yinka Ilori, who was appointed as Artist in Residence in Kings Hill in 2021.

Mr Ilori said "This installation is inspired by the rich culture and heritage of Kent, in particular its history of apple growing, I hope it brings a ‘slice of peace’ to those visiting."

The finished work, which is being curated by Turner Contemporary and the University for the Creative Arts, is due to be completed in the spring.

Caroline Binns of Kings Hill developer Liberty Property Trust said: “Public art has always been a vital part of our placemaking in Kings Hill.

"Over the years we have commissioned numerous sculptures to encourage pride and attachment to the area,"

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