Regenerating Shop Fronts in Rotherham
Young people painted nature themed imagery
Flower beds before regeneration
Locals enjoyed the new squirrels
Colourful birds, flowers and images depicting the changing seasons are adorning shop shutters in Rotherham, as young people get arty in a project to brighten up the borough.
Thirty three young people 10 to 18 year-olds have put their creative talents to the test after lending their support to the scheme, which was initiated by Turning the Corner (TTC) to enhance the exterior of shops in Wingfield, East Herringthorpe and Fellowsfield.
TTC, which is delivered by Groundwork and funded by the Big Lottery Fund, aims to challenge negative perceptions and attitudes between local businesses and young people seen to be “hanging around” street corners, particularly in areas with shops.
The young people from Wingfield Business and Enterprise College, Winterhill Young People’s Centre and East Herringthorpe Youth Centre, worked alongside “eco-graffiti” artist Faunagraphic and TTC outreach worker, Carole Foster to create the murals following consultation with shop owners to come up with the designs.
Three spray art murals have been created and installed so far, and the group is now working on a large mural featuring endangered animals to be displayed in Sheffield town centre.The reaction from local businesses to the artwork has been encouraging.
Carole Foster commented: “This is a really creative project that encourages young people to take ownership of their environment and will hopefully inspire then to protect and enhance it. It’s also helped to build mutual respect between the young people and the local shop owners who have been involved in the scheme”
Jodie Leigh Padley aged 15 is one of the young people involved in the shutter art project. She said: “I’ve enjoyed trying something new and it’s been good to see our work on display in the local community”.
Janet Poulton, chairperson of the Rotherham Federation of Tenants and Residents, said: “The shutter art is really making an impact and many local residents who visit the shop areas have commented how it’s brightened up the area. The young people involved, Carole and the artist have done a fantastic job. I hope TTC can encourage more young people to get involved in projects like this and take pride in their local community”.
In addition to the shutter art, local shops have also benefitted from planters which the young people have potted to add even more colour to the local community.
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Published: 07/03/2011
Filled under: Workshops
