Artist left disappointed after inspirational signs vandalised

‘I know public art always has the likelihood of being de-faced, destroyed or nicked, but I was hoping in these difficult times people would be less selfish and actually leave these ‘‘Notes From Islanders” in place for others to enjoy,’ artist Sian Jones said.

The series of notes around the island was a collaborative project, with the public suggesting quotes to help uplift other islanders.

‘It takes a lot of time, effort and energy to make these signs – as well as battling with my own insecurities when installing them,’ Ms Jones said.

The signs have stood the test of time and bad weather, but recently several have been broken, bent, smashed and snapped.

Ms Jones expressed her disappointment about the vandalism on her Facebook page and asked friends to let her know if there were any more around the island that have been damaged, although she hoped it would be her last post about this kind of thing happening.

One had been taken from Vale Castle and another from the kiosk at Pembroke.

However, in an act of kindness, she was told that the owner of Pembroke slipway kiosk spotted it had been vandalised and took it home to try to repair it.

‘Thank you to everyone who supports this artwork,’ she said.

‘I know you are the majority and this keeps me going.’

Vandalism has also occurred at an islander’s house where they had hung bunting in preparation for Liberation Day.

She said nearly 50 of the 100 flags she had bought and put up on her house had been ripped down and taken away.

‘I was very sad to see it, obviously some people do not respect other people’s property, or Liberation Day.’