Like the Back of my Hand

In 2000, Strange Cargo created Folkestone's first new public artwork since the War Memorial. To commemorate the new millennium, 101 individuals were chosen: 100 born in each separate year of the previous century, and the final hand print was from the first baby born in Shepway district in the year 2000.

Each person's hand print was cast in bronze, accompanied by biographies, photographs, and a recording of each participant stating the year of their birth. Initially displayed at Strange Cargo’s Georges House Gallery, the artwork was relocated in 2004 to a prominent site near Folkestone Central Railway Station, which had previously been in disrepair.

"Like the Back of My Hand" now animates a frequently used public space, serves as an iconic gateway to the town, and stands as a memorial to those who have passed. In 2005, it was honoured with the prestigious Rouse Kent Public Art Award, presented by Stephen Deuchar, then Director of Tate Britain.