A striking new public artwork called "Walk With Your Dreams" will make its debut at Station Square outside Milton Keynes Station next month, promising to transform the area into a more vibrant and welcoming space for visitors and residents alike. The colorful installation, which will be integrated directly into the flooring of the square, is scheduled for its official unveiling on October 2.
The artwork has been created by renowned British-Nigerian artist and designer Yinka Ilori MBE, who is known for his bold and culturally-inspired designs. Commissioned jointly by Milton Keynes Development Partnership and Milton Keynes City Council, the piece draws inspiration from both Nigerian textiles and elements specific to Milton Keynes itself, creating a unique fusion of cultural influences and local identity.
The project, which carries a budget of £100,000, will be celebrated with a special unveiling event running from 4:15 PM to 7:30 PM. The festivities will feature an array of live entertainment, including performances by the African Diaspora Foundation Dance Group and musician and performer Sheniah Asiamah from My City. Additionally, attendees will be treated to a specially commissioned poem by Maureen Onwunali, who serves as poet in residence at the IF: Milton Keynes International Festival The Roundhouse.
The celebration will also showcase live music from a DJ and feature performances by the SLQY Collective, a vibrant community organization comprising local artists, poets, and musicians. These diverse performances aim to reflect the multicultural spirit that the artwork itself embodies.
Beyond the artwork itself, the installation will be complemented by a carefully planned planting scheme featuring plant species specifically chosen for their aesthetic appeal, contribution to local biodiversity, and environmental sustainability. This holistic approach ensures that the project enhances the area not just visually, but also ecologically.
Nicola Sawford, Chair of the Milton Keynes Development Partnership, expressed enthusiasm about the project's potential impact on the city center. "We're proud to be making this substantial commitment in the city center which will transform the experience of everyone who visits," Sawford stated. "The design gives Station Square the boost it needs to become a welcoming, vibrant and memorable space for residents, visitors and those discovering the city for the first time."
The installation represents a significant investment in public art and urban beautification, positioning Milton Keynes as a city that values cultural expression and community engagement. With its combination of artistic innovation, cultural celebration, and environmental consciousness, "Walk With Your Dreams" is expected to become a landmark feature that enhances the experience of all who pass through this important transit hub.
