A striking model of television presenter Claudia Winkleman has garnered attention in Stowmarket, Suffolk, as local artist Sharon Kulesa continues her tradition of creating life-sized figures inspired by popular culture. The model, which celebrates Winkleman’s role in the recently concluded series of BBC One’s reality show *The Traitors*, has sparked interest among residents and passers-by alike.
A Creative Tribute
Sharon Kulesa, 46, expressed her hope that Winkleman would be “quite flattered” by the model, which she believes reflects the present moment’s cultural relevance. “Claudia is so iconic looking, and I think people love her,” Kulesa remarked. “I like to do something on the fence that’s quite relevant to what’s going on at the moment.” This latest creation joins a series of other models that Kulesa has displayed outside her home, including depictions of Queen Elizabeth II during her Platinum Jubilee and pop star Ed Sheeran.
The artist’s journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she crafted her first figure, a model of then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson, for a local scarecrow festival. Since then, her collection has expanded to include a variety of well-known figures, such as King Charles, Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, and Disney’s Snow White.
Community Engagement and Joy
The community’s response to Kulesa’s work has been overwhelmingly positive. “The reaction it produces from the community is just always amazing,” she noted. “People love it, especially the kids, because it’s on a main route to the primary school.” Her creations, which are primarily constructed from a mannequin base, stuffed tights, and heads made from newspaper, kitchen foil, and masking tape, have become a delightful feature of the neighbourhood.
Local resident Matt Jerome, who moved to Stowmarket in 2024, shared his enthusiasm for Kulesa’s creations. “I do always look forward to seeing what might end up on the fence next,” he said, adding that his dog Oz often gets startled by the new models. Jerome’s favourite has been Stitch, the beloved character from Disney’s *Lilo & Stitch*, which has also left a lasting impression on the local community.
Sustainable Creativity
Kulesa remains committed to sustainability in her artistic process, sourcing most clothing for her models from charity shops and second-hand platforms like Vinted. This approach not only keeps costs manageable but also aligns with her eco-conscious values. The community’s engagement with her art has encouraged Kulesa to continue exploring new ideas and characters. She is currently contemplating a model of Winnie-the-Pooh to celebrate the character’s upcoming 100th birthday, although she acknowledges that this project will require more time due to the character’s larger stature.
More than 1,000 people reacted to the photo of Kulesa’s Winkleman model on social media, showcasing the excitement and appreciation for her work among local residents.
Why it Matters
Sharon Kulesa’s artistic endeavours transcend mere entertainment; they foster a sense of community and connection among residents in Stowmarket. Through her imaginative models, Kulesa not only brings joy to her neighbours but also sparks conversations about cultural icons and shared experiences. In a world where creativity and community engagement can sometimes feel disconnected, Kulesa’s work serves as a reminder of the power of art to unite and inspire people.
