A WARWICKSHIRE-wide community art initiative has transformed ten locations in the county.
The murals, each designed by local community groups to reflect the identity of their town or village, were commissioned as part of the Blank Canvas art project.
Users of the Hill Street community centre in Rugby came together to design this piece in Gas Street, painted by artist and illustrator Jessi Hartshorn.The unique murals – in Warwick, Rugby, Kenilworth, Southam, Bedworth, Coleshill, Loxley, Nuneaton and Polseworth – range from abstract symbols to striking illustrations, aiming to showcase the diversity and vibrancy of Warwickshire’s communities.
Each piece also features a Warwickshire bear – either clearly visible or cleverly hidden – to symbolise a shared sense of belonging and celebrate local individuality.
Community groups worked with local artists, sharing their ideas and perspectives on what makes their area special.
Artists Michelle Abrahall, Ali Glover, Jessi Hartshorn, Katie O and Tim Robottom brought the ideas to life, adding colour and character to local streetscapes.
Community groups which contributed include volunteers at the Kenilworth Centre, children attending tutoring at Packmores Community Centre in Warwick, residents of Southam, and users of the Hill Street Centre and members of Tea Leaf Tales, both in Rugby.
The mural at Fossato Lounge in Kenilworth was created by Tim Robottom and volunteers at the Kenilworth Centre.Coun Darren Cheshire, Warwickshire County Council’s spokesman for Environment, Heritage and Culture, said: “It’s fantastic to see the final murals in the Blank Canvas project brought to life across Warwickshire.
“Each piece tells a unique local story, shaped by the people who know their communities best and brought together through creativity, collaboration and a real sense of pride in our places felt by the artists and, hopefully, by residents.
“These murals not only brighten our streetscapes but also celebrate the shared heritage of our towns and villages – symbolised by the Warwickshire bear linking them all.
“I’d like to thank all the community groups, artists, partners and volunteers who contributed their ideas, time and talent to make this project such a success.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/blankcanvasproject to see photos and interpretations of all the murals, and information about the artists.
