Welcome to Artistic Republic of Garston

Jun 2 2008 by Laura Sharpe, Liverpool Daily Post

Welcome to Artistic Republic of Garston

REVOLUTION broke out in Merseyside over the weekend in the final stage of an awe-inspiring arts project.

The small vibrant community of Garston took their campaign to become a cultural village one step further on Saturday when they set up their own republic.

Children flocked on to the street clad in berets and waving placards “We love Garston” and road blocks were put in place with Republican guards.

Garston’s disused Edwardian school building was transformed into an embassy, becoming the headquarters of a mini state with its own flag and passport, and residents invited to join the cause. At 3pm, the president arrived to declare independence for The Artistic Republic of Garston.

The Pavilions project takes the form of three temporary, creative spaces in the neighbourhoods of Kirkdale, Kensington and Garston. Garston was the final installation of the three and was the culmination of the ongoing vision of the village to establish a vibrant artistic community.

Working in collaboration with Garston Cultural Village, artist Michael Trainor said he hoped Garston’s spirit of independence would promote the regeneration of the area.

The “embassy” will have a number of automated installations throughout the year, and will be available to hire for community use.

Liverpool Pavilions is funded by the Liverpool Culture Company and managed by Liverpool Biennial.

laurasharpe