This Sky is Your Sky
Bill Balaskas, 2024, Two-Part Mixed Media Installation
This Sky is Your Sky is 422 Arts’ newly commissioned public art installation created by Bill Balaskas. Officially launched in August 2024, the project was selected through an open call and public vote in 2023. Its production and development were carried out in close collaboration with local residents, volunteers, staff, and community members, incorporating their feedback and aspirations throughout different stages of the process.
The installation consists of two parts: an illuminated outdoor sign bearing the phrase “This Sky is Your Sky” and a series of semi-transparent window films featuring images of the local sky. The text-based work serves not only as a poetic declaration but also as a symbolic reference to 422’s history as one of the first free public libraries in the country. The phrase is a constant reminder that this building—and by extension, the neighbourhood—belongs to the people.
The images of the local sky, taken by community members during a workshop held in collaboration with photography students and tutors from Manchester Metropolitan University, capture both the literal and metaphorical essence of the installation. The light filtering through the window films creates a striking visual experience, connecting the building’s interior with its surroundings.
This Sky is Your Sky establishes 422 as a place where everyone is encouraged to find support, dream freely, and look toward the future.
In June 2023, 422 Arts announced the commissioning of a new building front installation to mark the completion of our building restoration. We advertised an open call inviting socially-minded artists with experience in creating public art commissions or outdoor installations to submit expressions of interest in this unique opportunity. In September 2023, after reviewing over 100 submissions, 422 Arts announced the shortlisting of artists Cesar Cornejo and Bill Balaskas. The initial selection panel included Dr Marianna Tsionki (Curator, Leeds Arts University) and Nicola Hood (Contemporary Art Curator, Harris Museum) alongside 422 Arts Director Or Tshuva.
After a month of research, including site visits and community consultations, the artists developed detailed project proposals, which were presented to the public at an open-vote event in October. The selected project, This Sky is Your Sky, was produced in collaboration with local residents, tutors, and students from Manchester Metropolitan University. Together, they captured images of the local sky, which are featured in the window films and an accompanying exhibition at the 422 Community Hub Café.
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