jennie lee
A Youth Perspective
Milton Keynes is getting a new statue celebrating Jennie Lee, an inspirational figure whose work transformed access to arts and education.
We’re looking for ten people aged 14–25 to take part in a short creative project shaping how the statue is understood and shared with the public.
You don’t need any previous experience - just curiosity, ideas, and a willingness to take part.
What you’ll do
As part of the project team you'll have the chance to:
Meet renowned sculptor, Andy Edwards, the artist creating the statue
Learn about Jennie Lee’s legacy
Develop ideas & recommendations for how the artwork should be presented in the city — through discussion, group activities and shared writing.
Write a collaborative Open Letter to the City of Milton Keynes, sharing your views on why Jennie Lee’s legacy still matters today.
Why it’s worth your time
This is real‑world experience that looks great on your CV or uni application — especially if you’re interested in:
Creative pathways: art, culture, writing, design, or storytelling
People and society: education, social change, politics or civic life
Behind‑the‑scenes culture: museums, galleries, public art or heritage
You’ll build skills in:
Interpreting & prioritising information for public audiences
Research, discussion & idea development
Sharing your views in ways that suit you — in conversation, writing or group work
Plus, you’ll get:
The chance to meet & talk with a professional artist working on a major public sculpture
A real opportunity to contribute to how a public artwork is explained and understood
To help shape a youth‑authored Open Letter that will be shared publicly
Jennie believed passionately in education for all and arts for everyone. Her legacy continues to shape the cultural life of Milton Keynes today.
Project schedule
Sessions will take place at a number of different locations including Station Square, Unity Place, and The Open University. Snacks and drinks are provided, and we guarantee a relaxed and sociable environment.
#1 Meet The Artist | Thursday 4 June | 6-8pm | Station Square & Unity Place
Meet the artist behind the Jennie Lee statue and see how public artworks are made. You’ll view the prototype and share your thoughts before the final bronze is cast.
#2 The Woman Behind the Sculpture | Thursday 18 June | 6-8pm | The Open University
Discover who Jennie Lee was and why her ideas still matter now. Talk about education, opportunity, and what this means for young people in Milton Keynes today.
#3 Shaping the Story | Thursday 2 July | 6-8pm | Offset Projects
Decide what people should notice, learn or think when they see the statue. You’ll develop clear recommendations for the most interesting and meaningful content to help the public connect with it
#4 Writing the Open Letter | Thursday 9 July | 6-8pm | Offset Projects
Work together to write an Open Letter to the City of Milton Keynes. Share why Jennie Lee matters today and what this statue says about the city’s future.
Who is this for?
You must be aged 14-25 and living, working or learning in Milton Keynes to join.
No experience, qualifications or specialist knowledge are needed.
If access to opportunity matters to you, and you want to help shape your city’s story, this project is for you.
How to join
Places are limited, sign up now! Registration closes: 28 May 2025
Click here to complete a registration form — it takes just 5 minutes!
