Skip to content Accessibility statement

University of York hosts public fete

Posted on 14 June 2012

A new sculpture by University of York alumnus Keith Mellard will be unveiled at a traditional English fete as part of the University’s Alumni Weekend.

The unveiling of the new sculpture “Eunoia” - which means 'beautiful thought' in Greek – will be the highlight of the Alcuin College fete, which will be attended by the Lord Mayor of York, Councillor Keith Hyman.

We are thrilled that Keith Mellard is donating a new sculpture to the College and very much look forward to its unveiling on Saturday

Tony Ward

The fete, which is open to all, will feature stalls including a traditional coconut shy, face painting, a bouncy castle, live performances on stage and children's sports. The free event on Saturday, 16 June, will run from noon until 5pm.

Tony Ward, Provost of the University’s Alcuin College, said: “Everyone is welcome to attend what promises to be a wonderful family-friendly event. We are thrilled that Keith Mellard is donating a new sculpture to the College and very much look forward to its unveiling on Saturday.”

A fine art sculptor in stone, Keith Mellard has created a number of public art works including the Ruthrieston Stone, created for the Ruthrieston Residents Association in Aberdeen, which received a Merit in the Beautiful Scotland Neighbourhood Awards. 

Keith Mellard said: “My three years as a mature student member of Alcuin College were among the most luxurious and exciting times in my life. Luxurious, because I met things I didn’t understand and had nothing to do all day but try to understand. Exciting, because I found myself among some very bright young minds indeed.

“Now I am proud to be an alumnus of the University of York. Although I read Economics for my degree, my first love has always been art, and about 15 years ago I decided to concentrate on sculpture. I am very proud that Alcuin College has accepted my piece of work.”

The annual Alumni Weekend takes place at the University of York from 15 to 17 June and coincides with York’s 2012 Festival of Ideas, providing a full programme of events for alumni to enjoy.

Notes to editors:

Contact details

Caron Lett
Press Officer

Keep up to date

 Subscribe to news feeds

 Follow us on Twitter