HARLOW Art Trust and Harlow Council Announce Winner of Vintner House Public Sculpture Commission
Harlow Art Trust, in partnership with Harlow Council, is delighted to announce that Ore Projects has been selected as the winning artist team for the Vintner House Commission.

Commissioned by Harlow Council and delivered by Harlow Art Trust, the project is funded through Section 106 contributions from the redevelopment of Vintner House.

The open call earlier this year attracted more than 35 proposals from across the UK and overseas. From these, three artists and artist teams, Barnaby Lewis, Diana Hare, and Ore Projects, were shortlisted and invited to present their ideas at the Gibberd Gallery. Visitors were able to meet the artists in person during a dedicated evening event. For those who could not attend, the artists’ proposals remained on display, giving people the chance to explore the ideas and share their feedback as part of a new pilot approach to public engagement in the commissioning process.

The final decision was made by a panel consisting of Harlow Art Trust Trustees, members of Harlow Council including Cllr Danielle Brown, and representative from Harlow Creates. After reviewing the proposals, panel discussions, and public responses, the commission was awarded to Ore Projects.
‘Ore Projects’ is made up of designers and makers, Daniela Rubino and Lauren Wilson, sculptors who specialise in working with steel and aluminium. Through their joint practice, RubinoWilson, the pair bring together high-level fabrication expertise and a strong commitment to community development. Their work includes a free mentoring scheme that equips young people, particularly young women, with practical metalworking skills and pathways into the trade.

Ore Projects’ collaborative concept, developed with students from Harlow Fields School and College, drew particularly strong responses from visitors who praised its inclusivity, local connection, and thoughtful engagement with Harlow’s heritage.

One visitor commented, “What’s not to like? Local to Harlow, made by often marginalised young people, and a connection of old and new – it’s awesome.” Another described it as, “A very meaningful project. It will mean a lot for the students too.”

Ore Projects’ collaborative concept, developed with students from Harlow Fields School and College, drew particularly strong responses from visitors who praised its inclusivity, local connection, and thoughtful engagement with Harlow’s heritage. One visitor commented, “What’s not to like? Local to Harlow, made by often marginalised young people, and a connection of old and new – it’s awesome.” Another described it as, “A very meaningful project. It will mean a lot for the students too.”
Ore Projects reaction was:

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have been awarded this commission and to continue our creative work with the students of Harlow Fields College. The sculpture centres on connection, but it also celebrates equity, agency, and the power of learning-disabled young adults stepping forward as artists, makers, and decision-makers. It will stand as a permanent public statement: “I made this.”

This is a fantastic opportunity to co-create something truly monumental with such a lively, thoughtful, and inspiring group.”