Wakefield set to be dazzled by mysterious fifth and final neon rooftop artwork

The eye-catching feature, by Richard Wheater, is a feature of the new WordFest, which runs until October 31 and is the last in a series of his neon installations, the details of which remain a closely guarded secret until its unveiling - expect from the promise it will create 'neon fireworks' on the rooftop on Neon Workshops from 6pm on Friday, October 16.

‘Things People Say’ came from Richard's realisation that some of the most spontaneous, funny quips that are shared between friends and family in social moments are often forgotten and never noted.

With this in mind, Richard started to note these fragments of conversation, with the idea of channelling them into his creative work, which then became ‘Things People Say’.

Previous installations have stated ‘Skinny dipping is good, but naked skateboarding is awesome!’ and ‘There’s money to be made and moons to be mined’.

Richard is behind the internationally recognised neon art manufacturers Neon Workshops. Since it was founded in 2010, Neon Workshops has become the UK’s leading neon sculpture teaching workshop and fabrication studio, making Wakefield the go-to place for artists from all over the world including Martin Creed , Alfredo Jaar and Mary McCartney.

Richard said: “Over a period of four years, I discreetly noted moments in conversation with friends, usually in social settings convinced then that what I observed was spontaneous, non-contrived, flippantly honest.

"Moments almost unconsciously voiced, destined to be forgotten. A neon obsession has provided me with exposure to a lot of supposed illuminating illuminated statements.

"This project ‘Things People Say’ responds to that experience, suggesting everyone can voice something worthy of a large neon installation, arguing that the importance of a narrative is often purely the contextual shoulders that it stands on.

"The idea is that we’re all special and we all have the potential to make magic. Now, these fleeting, everyday moments are captured for all to see, illuminated in hand crafted, blazing neon light.

Coun Jacquie Speight, Wakefield Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Sport, said: “Richard’s incredible work is admired by many, both in Wakefield and globally, and he is a fantastic ambassador for the district.

"It’s been a hugely challenging six months for everyone in the district, so we’re delighted to be supporting this magnificent, local project which can be admired from afar. We hope the soft, warm glow of Richard’s neon work will act as a beacon of hope for the people of Wakefield when we need it the most.”

Things People Say will illuminate the sky every evening from Friday, October 16 until mid-November as part of Wakefield Council’s WordFest. The Creative Wakefield programme is committed to supporting local artists during these extraordinary times.