The proposal, titled XhibitA, is described by organisers as a long-overdue meeting place for fans who travel from across the world to visit the town.
The project has been launched by Wiltshire-based supporters Mike Smith and Graham Carter, who say it is difficult to justify the lack of official recognition for the band in Swindon, given their international reputation.
In campaign material, they state:
“Swindon needs a beacon, a meeting place for XTC’s worldwide fans when they come to the town.”
Organisers say the installation is not intended to be a traditional memorial or statue.
Instead, they describe it as a simple and accessible public feature that fans can visit and interpret in their own way.
The proposed design draws on artwork from the album Drums and Wires, reflecting the band’s early post-punk era, alongside stylised XTC lettering inspired by the pastoral themes of later releases. Supporters say the combination is intended to represent the group’s evolution.
Backers point to the band’s cultural influence as justification for the tribute.
Campaign materials claim XTC influenced artists including Nirvana, The Stone Roses and Blur, as well as newer acts such as Squid and Jacob Collier, although these claims have not been independently verified.
Songs such as Making Plans for Nigel, Dear God and Senses Working Overtime continue to attract new listeners, while tracks including Respectable Street and The Everyday Story of Smalltown reference Swindon directly.
The project will be privately funded, with estimated costs of up to £4,500.
Organisers are underwriting the installation themselves and have launched a crowdfunding appeal to fans worldwide. Donors will be recorded in a commemorative archive to be held at Swindon Central Library.
They say any surplus funds will be used to support music opportunities for children with Autism Spectrum Condition at a local school.
Supporters have linked the timing of the proposal to Swindon’s bid for UK City of Culture 2029, describing it as a statement of cultural ambition.
They also point to milestones in 2026, including the 50th anniversary of XTC performing in Swindon and events connected to the Old Town Arts Festival.
The preferred location is Town Gardens, although the site remains subject to agreement and will require approval from local authorities.
The design will remain under wraps until 29 May 2026, when it is due to be unveiled at The Victoria in Old Town during a tribute gig.
Organisers are now focused on building local and international backing for the scheme, which they say would create a lasting and visible connection between Swindon and one of its most influential bands.
Great idea. An important part of Swindon’s music history.