This mosaic artwork is situated adjacent to the River Nene road bridge and footpath as you leave Nether Heyford towards Upper Heyford.
Earlier this year I asked around about its origins but didn’t get much of a response, only educated guesses.
The heading reads “Spiritus Vallis” (Latin for “Spirit of the Valley”) and also depicted is MM (Roman Numerals for 2000)
Obviously the railway, canal and river indicate a local connection, the Roman/Mosaic connection ties in with a wealth of very significant discoveries in the village since the mid 1960’s.
The photograph above was taken in July 2019 and as you can see it has suffered from some decay on the left hand edge.
I have recently discovered more information so thought I would share in a post.
“Spirit of the Valley”
Part of the Northamptonshire’s Millennium Festival – a South Northamptonshire Council funded arts project during 2000.
Based on the Nene Valley and the communities that live along it, the project resulted in many activities including guided walks, photography, performances, writing and visual arts.
- One of the last elements to be completed was the siting of three mosaic-based art works made by groups in three South Northamptonshire villages.
- Guided by Northamptonshire artist Carole Miles.
- SNC Arts Development Officer was Anna Hayward in 2000.
- Harpole Heritage Group, Bugbrooke Arts Society, Heyford Archaeology Group & Youth Club each produced artwork based of the Nene Valley theme.
The 3 pieces were placed at the following sites:
“Roman Way Marker” – Nether Heyford
“Mosaic benches” – Harpole
“Giant Fossils” – Bugbrooke
Jez Wilson
The Nether Heyford Prattler 