Public Trust

In September 2024, we invited Lutonians to participate in Public Trust. The town came to Hat Gardens in huge numbers to participate in the creative promise-making process. Wishes were made, and oaths were sworn, over a range of meaningful objects from sacred or civic texts to holy objects and eventually a custom Luton Town Football shirt selected by the town.

Public Trust received Lutonians and Luton-based organisations from a diverse range of communities all looking to make a promise for themselves or Luton. It also had in attendance Dr. Nazia Khanum OBE, Deputy Lord Lieutenant, Cllr Hazel Simmons, the Leader of Luton Council, Sarah Hopkins, MP Luton South & South Bedfordshire, including Bav Shah, the High Sheriff of Bedfordshire.

Each pledge or promise was anonymously featured on a large-scale marquee display board that platformed the ambitions, aspirations, and dreams of the town.

“Public Trust reminds me that my promise is a bold statement and so I have to stick to it” – Dulia, Lutonian.

“It was a great experience to share with the community and felt like something that helped people to take pride in Luton” – Zoubair, Student.

“I think making promises out in the open at Public Trust has a way of making you want to stick to it” – Michael Angelo, Artist.

Public Trust went live in Luton on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September 2024 from 12:00 – 17:00 at Hat Gardens, Luton. The installation attracted 1,238 engagements in total.