Community invited to celebrate opening of new public artwork in Oakgrove

Residents and visitors are invited to gather along the River Ouzel in Oakgrove on 4 June, from 5–7pm, to celebrate the opening of Nobody Lives by the Grid, a major new public artwork by Ivan Morison, developed with long-term collaborator Heather Peak and commissioned by Milton Keynes City Council in partnership with The Parks Trust.

The special event will bring people together to explore the installation alongside its riverside setting. Shaped by ideas and input from the local community, working in close collaboration with Oakgrove Primary School, the artwork reflects the community and the local natural environment, creating a shared space for everyone to connect, pause and experience the landscape in a new way.

The permanent installation features a series of striking bronze sculptures inspired by everyday forms. It explores themes of community, ecology and imagination, while encouraging reflection on how public spaces can be shared and enjoyed.

“I’m looking forward to seeing people come together to celebrate this new artwork. Nobody Lives by the Grid has been shaped by the community and creates a welcoming and inclusive space where people can meet, spend time and enjoy being outdoors. It’s a brilliant example of how art can bring communities together and enhance our public spaces.”

Nobody Lives by the Grid will join more than 270 public artworks across Milton Keynes, reflecting the city’s long-term commitment to commissioning public art.