The Chocolate Garden project
We began working with Lee in the summer of 2010 when he responded to a brief we advertised for an artist. The project was to paint a 68sq.m wall, with a chocolate theme. The group of residents who initiated the project had fundraised to build a community garden on a derelict piece of ground in the neighbourhood in Weston super Mare. The group wanted a theme of chocolate (the area being called the Bournville), and the history of the cocoa bean from the jungle in South America along its journey to Europe.
Lee was one of 4 artists shortlisted from 8, and work of the final 4 was displayed in the local community centre. Lee’s work was by far the most popular and had the most votes so he won the work.
Lee worked hard on producing a design for the group, including images from the different eras that the cocoa bean has gone through. The group were very pleased with the design and Lee began work in January 2011 to complete the work. Throughout the project Lee has worked hard to meet the expectations of the group which he has done very successfully. He attended meetings, held workshops with local people and the group enjoyed working with him very much. The final piece he completed on the wall is incredible. The detail Lee has achieved with the spray cans is extraordinary, and the wall is an astonishing backdrop to the whole garden. Lee is a remarkably talented artist and I would have no hesitation in recommending him or working with him again.
Victoria Rooke
Project Development Worker
The For All Healthy Living Centre
Neighbourhood Management Team
8 Lonsdale Avenue
Weston super Mare.