We are delighted to announce the acquisition of Red Erratic, a major public artwork by internationally acclaimed artist Dorothy Cross, following its presentation as part of Folkestone Triennial 2025.
The acquisition has been made possible through the generous support of Art Fund, the Henry Moore Foundation, Frith Street Gallery, London, and the Roger De Haan Charitable Trust, ensuring that Red Erratic will remain in Folkestone as part of the town’s internationally recognised exhibition of public art, Folkestone Artworks.
Situated on the former lower loading bay of Folkestone’s Harbour Arm and revealed by the tides, Red Erratic has become one of the most talked-about works of Folkestone Triennial 2025. The striking sculpture reflects Cross’s long-standing interest in place, landscape and the relationship between people and the natural world. By acquiring the work for the public exhibition, Creative Folkestone is ensuring that future generations can continue to experience and enjoy this remarkable artwork.
Philippine Nguyen, Chief Executive, Creative Folkestone, said:
“Red Erratic captured people’s imaginations throughout Folkestone Triennial 2025. Dorothy Cross has created a powerful artwork that speaks to Folkestone’s unique coastal landscape and invites visitors to see our shoreline in a new way. We are incredibly grateful to Art Fund, the Henry Moore Foundation, Frith Street Gallery, London, and the Roger De Haan Charitable Trust for making it possible for this important work to remain in Folkestone permanently.”
Dorothy Cross, artist, said:
“I am delighted that Red Erratic has found a perfect home. The red marble, Damascus Rose, originated in Syria, was carved in Italy and then travelled to Britain. The lower pier platform is a perfect location for it, where the sea swirls around the big block as tides rise and fall, and the beautifully carved feet balance precariously on top. It is particularly poignant as it sits looking across the English Channel where so many people risk their lives to cross. Many thanks to Folkestone Triennial and all involved in its safe landing.”
Dorothy Cross is one of Ireland’s most celebrated contemporary artists. Her work is held in major public and private collections around the world and is known for exploring themes of identity, memory, landscape and transformation.
For more than two decades, Creative Folkestone has used creativity as a catalyst for positive social change, helping to transform the town’s reputation while creating opportunities for residents, artists and visitors alike.
Creative Folkestone continues to demonstrate leadership in place-led cultural regeneration, building a permanent exhibition of public artworks that can be experienced free of charge throughout the town. The addition of Red Erratic strengthens this exhibition and further establishes Folkestone as one of the UK’s leading destinations for contemporary art in public space.
Sorcha Carey, curator, Folkestone Triennial 2025, said:
“I am so delighted that this uniquely important work, a highlight of the 2025 Triennial, will remain permanently in Folkestone. Dorothy Cross’ Red Erratic is a powerful and moving reflection on place and displacement that will continue to speak to residents and visitors for many years to come.”
The acquisition of Red Erratic demonstrates our continued commitment to commissioning, presenting and preserving ambitious contemporary art in public space. Building on the success of Folkestone Triennial 2025, the organisation continues to show leadership in place-led cultural regeneration, using creativity to make Folkestone an inspiring place to live, work and visit. As preparations begin for Folkestone Triennial 2028, we remain committed to delivering world-class cultural experiences with lasting benefits for the town and its communities.
Red Erratic joins our exhibition of permanent public artworks, which includes works by leading national and international artists situated throughout the town and along the coast.