This August, Clarks Village in Street is transforming mini golf into an artistic adventure with its new “Art and Putt” crazy golf course. Celebrating some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, the course features imaginative, vibrant holes inspired by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Salvador Dalí, Keith Haring, David Hockney, Frida Kahlo, Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, Bridget Riley, and Andy Warhol.
Chris Davis, Centre Director at Clarks Village, shares that his personal favorite— and the most challenging — is the hole modeled after Andy Warhol’s iconic ‘Soup Cans.’ Despite multiple attempts, Chris admits he’s yet to land a “Warhol-in-one.” “I’m no Tiger Woods, that’s for sure!” he laughs.
The goal behind Art and Putt was to offer visitors a unique summertime attraction that goes beyond traditional shopping. Chris explains, “Clarks has never been just about shopping. We wanted to do something different, something that really pops—hence the bright colours and statues.” The response has been overwhelmingly positive since opening.
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The launch of Art and Putt follows a stellar year for Clarks Village, which has seen a 14.2% rise in overall sales. Clothing sales went up by 9.3%, while health and beauty products soared 15.1%. Chris, who grew up nearby in Wells, started his first job at Clarks Village back in the nineties and fondly recalls buying his Levi’s there. After gaining experience in major UK cities like London, Manchester, and Liverpool, he is proud to be back in Somerset and leading Clarks Village through an exciting phase. “It feels like a perfect circle,” he says.
Art and Putt will run through the end of August, with no pre-booking required and a fee of £8 per player. Each round lasts around 45 minutes. When asked if the crazy golf course might return next year, Chris hinted, “If we brought it back, it would probably come with a bit of a twist.”
Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking for playful fun, Art and Putt offers an engaging way to experience the creativity of modern art while enjoying a friendly game of crazy golf.