The New Romney Community Obelisk (Didier Rochard & Yolanda Houston)
The New Romney Community Obelisk is a permanent public artwork celebrating the people, places and heritage of the town. Created by local artists Yolanda and John Houston, and produced by Didier Rochard, its mosaic panels depict scenes from New Romney’s history, including St Nicholas’ Church, its maritime and trading past, Romney Marsh sheep, wildlife and local characters.
The designs were shaped through ideas submitted by residents, while 442 people aged from three to 94 helped make the mosaics at free workshops held across the community. Schools, youth groups, older residents, local artists and organisations including South Kent MIND and Romney Marsh Community Hub all contributed. Workshops also took place in the historic churches at New Romney and Ivychurch.
Installed near St Nicholas’ Church in November 2024, the obelisk connects with the town’s existing Heritage Trail and contains a time capsule for future generations. Its sculpted metalwork incorporates details inspired by the landscape and wildlife of Romney Marsh.
Funded by Arts Council England and New Romney Town Council, the project was also supported by the Romney Marsh Historic Churches Trust, with workshops taking place in local churches. It builds on the earlier Marsh Mosaics project and demonstrates how participatory art and heritage craft can bring different generations together to create a lasting expression of local identity and belonging.
