Roman Helmet - Hillside Gardens

An artwork for Prestatyn

The iconic Roman helmet for the Hillside Gardens is a commemoration of Prestatyn and a celebration of heritage.

The idea was to design a bold, uplifting and memorable sculpture, with symbolic references woven into its fabric. Prestatyn’s rich heritage, together with its stunning surrounding countryside provided the inspiration for the ideas.

A variety of traditional and modern day metal working techniques were used to construct the giant helmet entirely by hand, before final artworking to replicate ancient bronze.
The giant helmet proudly overlooks Prestatyn, and marks a sense of place and achievement, especially for walkers finishing (or starting!) the famous Offa’s Dyke National Trail.

Meaning in the embossings

It is a treasure to be discovered, unearthed, nodding to an age gone by. Roman legions had settlements in Prestatyn, evidence of which is most notably situated in what is now Melyd Avenue: the remains of the 20th Legion’s bath house can still be visited today and original artifacts uncovered on site, dating back as far as AD120, can be viewed at Prestatyn Library.

The helmet itself is returning to nature and is embossed with graceful Sessile Oak leaves - a tree common to the area, and symbolic of strength and resilience.
On further inspection you will find references to local flora and fauna, and many other attractions that Prestatyn boasts.

Public Artwork for the Public

Artworks in the public realm are for the enjoyment and benefit of the whole community, from residents and old friends to visitors and new arrivals: we feel strongly that artworks should embrace and connect with the very people it is intended to bless. To ensure that the local community made their own mark on the artwork, pupils at Prestatyn High School put forward designs for a series of embossings, expressing what they felt was most important about Prestatyn today. The response was fantastic, and a selection of their work has been built into the sculpture.
Please be encouraged to see what you can find, explore the sculpture and discover its many meanings for yourself…

About codsteaks

The company of artists known as ‘Cod Steaks’ has been supplying the arts and media industry with award winning design and construction for over 25 years. From creating all the sets and models for the Aardman Animations features, to winning the prestigious public art commission for Prestatyn’s Hillside Gardens, Cod Steaks work is diverse as it is memorable!

Combining extensive facilities and a passion for public art, Cod Steaks’ talented team of designers and craftsmen work closely together to create exciting, ambitious and innovative pieces of art, to inspire and engage with the local community.