Just before Sea Road reaches Boscombe's pedestrian precinct, at the Cecil Road junction, sits one of the more understated pieces on the Boscombe Arts Trail: Vessel. Its container-like shape has taken on a life of its own, passers-by have noticed it pressed into service as a stand for a potted plant, locals taking its name quite literally.
The Boscombe Arts Trail
Vessel is one of seven sculptures commissioned in 2010 from Dorset sculptor Andy Kirkby, selected by a panel combining arts professionals, local residents and ward councillors as part of Boscombe's seafront regeneration. Shared materials and a marine theme, bronze, copper and cast iron, link the pieces, connected further by a recurring gilded rope motif that guides walkers between the works. It sits near the top of the trail, just past Verne on the way up from the seafront, with Tableau and Optic further down towards the pier.
Visiting
Vessel stands in the open air on Sea Road, viewable at any time and free of charge, as part of a walk along the Boscombe Arts Trail. Our guide to things to do in Bournemouth covers more of the area's outdoor art and seafront walking routes.
