Creating Lincolnshire-Inspired Flags for Boston’s Historic Tour Visit
Using the traditional art technique of quilling, participants have been transforming strips of paper into vibrant, multidimensional artworks that have been developed into flag designs.
This September, Boston will welcome the Lloyds Tour of Britain Men for the very first time in the modern era of the race, and Transported is marking the occasion with a special community art project celebrating both the Tour’s arrival and everything that makes Lincolnshire unique.
Transported’s Festival Development Lead, Ruth Pigott, has brought together artists Dovile Sakalauskaite and Emily Cartwright to work with local residents to create a series of colourful flag designs inspired by the race, Boston and the Lincolnshire landscape.
What is Quilling?
Quilling is the process of rolling, shaping and arranging strips of paper to create decorative images and patterns. The strips are carefully glued together to form intricate designs with texture, depth and detail, making it a perfect medium for celebrating local landmarks, landscapes and community identity.
Community Workshops
We’ve already enjoyed three fantastic workshops with South Lincolnshire residents, including:
- The Crafty Coffee Club
- Tonic Health’s HAF Group at Holbeach Hub
- Tonic Health’s HAF Group at Pescod Hall
It has been wonderful to see so many people sharing ideas, stories and creativity while helping to create designs that celebrate Boston’s moment in the spotlight.
Inspired by Lincolnshire
The artwork created through these workshops has taken inspiration from:
- The Lloyds Tour of Britain
- Boston and its local heritage
- Lincolnshire’s landscapes and open skies
- The excitement of welcoming elite cycling to the county
From paper to print
Emily Cartwright took the finished paper designs and translated them into digital designs. They have been transformed into 2 designs.
Thanks to the help of Transported’s University of Lincoln colleague, Emma Osbourn the designs have been printed on fabric to create a collection of 8 celebratory flags to mark the race’s arrival.
The location is to be confirmed, but we’re excited to display them on race day in Boston town centre and to cheer on the riders!
Follow the Project
Keep an eye on our social media channels for:
- Behind-the-scenes updates
- Photos from workshops
- Artist insights
- Final flag designs
- Information about any public displays location
Follow Transported on social media to see how the project progresses and to celebrate Boston’s historic Tour of Britain moment with us.
Make a moving ship to take home!
Led by puppet maker Robbie Bellekom, this hands‑on activity is part of the build‑up to Boston International Hanseatic Day – no booking needed, just pop along and have a go.
The ships are based on woodcut images of trade ships from the Hanseatic period – watch the video below to see one set sail!
Robbie is a puppet maker and puppeteer based in the East Midlands, creating fantastical new work that is accessible and uplifts diverse voices.
As well as leading this workshop, Robbie will be creating two Lincolnshire Long Wool sheep puppets for the parade – a ewe and a lamb.
The largest sheep in the UK, the Lincoln Longwool is a rare breed that can be traced back hundreds of years and has been chosen for the puppet creation as a celebration of Boston’s wool trade and historic trading links
Get creative with colour and light!
Using simple silk‑painting techniques, you’ll create a beautiful suncatcher to take home while exploring Boston’s medieval history.
Part of the creative build‑up to International Hanseatic Day, this relaxed, hands‑on activity is suitable for all ages and abilities.
You can display your beautiful suncatchers at home or bring them along to wave while watching the parade procession.
Donna Fox (along with members of the community who helped create them in public workshops) is the artist behind last year’s Hanse Day festival banners and silk skirts worn by the Josie Clarke Dance Company dancers, so you’ll be in very safe creative hands.
All ages are welcome, under 18s must be supervised by a parent or guardian. Places are free, but booking is required.
There are two time slots to choose from:
- 10am-12pm
- 1pm-3pm
