Celebrating Community Through Art
Stars Like Dormers is a collaborative public art project that brings together diverse voices to create a lasting symbol of unity and cultural richness. At the heart of this initiative is the sculpture “Stars Like Dust”, designed by sculptor Raj Dagstani in partnership with Dormers Wells High School in Southall, London. This project was made possible through the support of Dr. Kanwardeep Ahluwalia and his charity, Kickstart Initiatives for Community Kids (KICK).
The Sculpture: “Stars Like Dust”
“Stars Like Dust” is an eight-foot-tall corten steel sculpture featuring a double archway enveloped by a galaxy of stars. The design incorporates the six-pointed star, a symbol representing Islamic, Christian, Jewish, and Hindu faiths, reflecting the multicultural tapestry of the Dormers Wells community. The sculpture was fabricated by Barnacle Bros. Sculpture and Custom Fabrication in Los Angeles, California.
A unique aspect of this project was the involvement of 97 high school students who participated in a weeklong workshop led by Raj Dagstani. Through theatrical exercises and group critiques, students created large-scale cardboard sculptures, culminating in an exhibition of their work. The final sculpture synthesizes their ideas and imagery, serving as a monument to community collaboration and cultural diversity.
Ongoing Community Engagement
The project continues to evolve as students, under the guidance of Dormers Wells art teachers Laila Ahmed, Timothy Laydon, and Sarah Davies, contribute glass and other media stars to be inserted into the hundreds of star shapes cut into the steel. This ongoing interaction ensures that “Stars Like Dust” remains a dynamic and evolving symbol of the community’s spirit and creativity.
Join Us
We invite you to explore the journey of “Stars Like Dust” and witness how art can unite and inspire communities. Through this project, we celebrate the power of collaboration, cultural diversity, and the enduring impact of public art.