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Call for artists to design interactive tribute to honour famous Dartford resident and Strictly Come Dancing judge Len Goodman

15:11, 08 April 2024

Artists are being called on to design a piece of “playful” art in honour of one of Kent’s most famous faces.

Dartford council is inviting expressions of interest for the creation of a tribute to Strictly Come Dancing star and town legend Len Goodman.

Len Goodman Photo credit: BBC photographer Ray Burmiston
Len Goodman Photo credit: BBC photographer Ray Burmiston

The commission is the opportunity for an artist to create a piece of art which celebrates the achievements of the well-loved professional ballroom dancer and teacher who died last April.

The work will be permanent and is expected to last at least 25 years.

The brief is to create a piece of artwork that the town can be proud of, that celebrates Len Goodman, the joy of dancing and recognises his loyalty to Dartford, while also encouraging visitors to the town centre.

It is also hoped to be something playful which encourages public interaction.

The budget for the work is £25,000, which includes fees, materials, fabrication and installation.

Speaking about the idea of a memorial to his father last year, James Goodman told KentOnline: “My dad was always a huge advocate for Dartford and always had positive things to say about the area so it would be fitting to honour him in this way.

“I think it’s a wonderful idea.”

If you are interested you are asked to apply by May 3 with interviews taking place on May 22 and 23. For more information click on this link.

Applicants will be informed of the finalised dates as soon as possible.

Dartford town centre already has statues dedicated to two of its most famous residents.

The Glimmer Twins, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, statues in Dartford High Street. Picture: Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography
The Glimmer Twins, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards, statues in Dartford High Street. Picture: Dartford Borough Council/ Andy Barnes Photography

The “Glimmer Twins” was unveiled last August as a tribute to Rolling Stones members Mick Jagger and Keith Richards.

Created by sculptor Amy Goodman, it captures the pair mid-performance on a concrete stage at One Bell Corner.

It was commissioned by Dartford council with the £130,000 cost being met through a public art contribution from developers Bellway as part of its nearby Copperhouse Green development in Lowfield Street.

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