5:29pm Sunday 16th September 2007
By George Hamilton
A community group is on the hunt for volunteers to help commemorate an Oxford estate's 50th anniversary in a unique way.
Blackbird Leys hits its half century this year and the Leys Learning Community wants residents to produce a special mosaic depicting the estate's history.
The group wants to display the mosaic on the front of the Leys Linx Centre, in Blackbird Leys Road, for future generations to enjoy.
It has invited volunteers to join special design workshops - beginning on Tuesdaysep18 at the centre from 9.30am to 2.15pm.
More workshops will follow from 6pm to 8pm on Tuesday and 10am to 2pm on Saturday, and at the same time on the following weeks.
Jim Barlow, learning co-ordinator, said the mosaic would be made up of ceramic tiles which had been decorated.
He said: "The idea is that the mosaic is going to be made up of 50 different panels.
"We would really like 50 people involved. If each panel was made by a different person that would be great."
The design of the mosaic is still open to suggestion, but organisers would like something which associates with the history of the estate and one that will compliment the Glow Tree sculpture next to the centre, which was designed by the Blackbird Leys Art Group.
Mr Barlow said: "It could be one of the tower blocks, or the Glow Tree or the 52 bus.
"We want people to think about good memories connected with the estate and to do with 50 years of living on it. Making a mosaic brings people together. It helps create a sense of community and it is really enjoyable. Like the Glow Tree we want to create something that will be there forever.
"All sorts of other possibilities could spring from it. Once the group gets together there is no telling what they might do next."
Laura Court, from Shepherds Hill, Greater Leys, did a course in mosaic making at Leys Linx Centre, where she learnt to cut and prepare tiles.
She said: "It's really very relaxing. It's good fun and it uses your brain.
"I think this is a lovely chance to get involved and do something as a giant project for the community."
© Copyright 2001-2010 Newsquest Media Group
http://www.thisisoxfordshire.co.uk