A new arts trail connects six locations through artworks and urges visitors to connect with heritage and nature.

The Time to Connect trail features the six artworks created and installed by artist and sculptor Chris Campbell at Papplewick Pumping Station; Newstead Abbey; RSPB Sherwood Forest; Rufford Abbey; Vicar Water Country Park, Clipstone; and Bestwood Country Park. His work includes a bench in the forest, and sculptures at Newstead (pictured), Papplewick, Rufford, and Vicar Water.

The trail is the result of Inspire and Miner2Major’s work with The Big Draw, and was sparked by its 2023 theme #DrawingwithSenses to connect communities with nature and the world around us through sensory exploration.

Visual artists Mandy Keating, Tracey Meek and Chris Campbell teamed up with groups and schoolchildren to create drawings inspired by the county’s heritage and landscapes.

The artwork from the workshops was used by Chris in his designs for the sculpturesl. Groups involved in the project include, Newstead Primary School, Bilsthorpe Flying High Academy, 1st Edwinstowe Rainbows and Brownies, and 1st Clipstone Beavers, Cubs and Scouts.

The trail is the first part of a wider national project led by photographer Alistair Morrison, who created Time to Connect, photographing people and places.

Peter Gaw, Inspire chief executive, said: “The trail is a fabulous way for people to connect with arts, heritage and their local nature sites. We hope people will feel inspired by Alistair’s journey and step out to explore the sites and discover art on their doorstep this summer.

Steve Little, scheme manager of Miner2Major, added: “The trail has been one of Miner2Major’s biggest projects and, as our scheme comes to an end, we’re delighted to be launching this. Each stop along the way features a fabulous location and, thanks to National Lottery players, the trail will encourage people to explore the rich heritage of Sherwood Forest and immerse themselves in the beauty of our natural spaces for years to come.”

Coun Emma Oldham, portfolio holder for Environmental Services and Biodiversity at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “The sculpture at Vicar Water was inspired by artwork created by Clipstone Scout group after they learned about the nature in the area, so this installation is a beautiful combination of heritage, art, nature, and our local community!

“How lovely that Vicar Water, home to such a variety of wildlife and biodiversity, is now home to art inspired by those very inhabitants.”

The Time to Connect Art Trail booklet is available to download at www.inspireculture.org.uk and copies can be picked up at libraries and the sculpture sites.