The Stoke-on-Trent public art will feature a variety of local heroes. The achievements of author Arnold Bennett, footballer Sir Stanley Matthews and singer Robbie Williams are set to be recognised. However there will not be an abundance of space for other celebrities so it may be quite difficult for less celebrated figures to make the final cut. A short-list of successful individuals will be assembled and then the public will have their say. Booklet printers in Stoke-on-Trent may be used to promote the cultural heritage of the Potteries.
The local authority has commissioned an artist to take the project forward. Anna Francis is based at the Airspace Gallery. She will lead the initiative until the bronze shoes are lined up within Tontine Square. Francis told the Stoke Sentinel:
“For me, a walk of fame should be something much more down to earth then the Hollywood version. I thought it would be great if we could install shoes so people could come and try them on and imagine themselves in the footsteps of people like Arnold Bennett and Robbie Williams.”
Francis is keen to get shoes which belonged to the stars in question. Failing that, she may settle for accurate representations of them. While the focus of the artwork will be on high achievers, public enthusiasm for more ordinary folk could see a couple of good neighbours being recognised.