The “Jack Star” sculpture has an ecological role as well as a visual one, providing resting space for migrant and local bird species, which feed on the inter-tidal mudlands of Tipner Lake. The entire structure stands some twelve metres high, above the low tide mark, with a floating roosting platform to ensure permanent access for birds, fitted with a floating collar that prevents the roost scouring and eroding the seabed as the tide falls.
Designed by Hampshire artist Richard Farrington, this image of a large-scale jack hovering over Tipner Lake provides a strong, visual landmark, relating to themes of sailing, navigation and the stars. Planning permission was granted for the structure in February 2000. Unfortunately, poor weather and the need for permission from the DETR for the works delayed its construction until October 2000. This work involved bringing a barge into Tipner Lake and driving a pile into the seabed to which the sculpture was connected.
