A new mural is being created at Cheadle Skate Park in an initiative by community arts project OUTSIDE and Cheadle Arts Festival. The ramp walls in the skate park are soon to be transformed, bringing fresh, contemporary art to the young people of the town.
There was a call out for mural artists and a local group, We are Culla, creators of custom artworks and murals, have been commissioned. Tom Edwards, of We Are Culla said: “As a proud Staffordshire Moorlander and strong supporter of skate culture, I can’t wait to meet the young people who use the park, hopefully pass on some new skills and give them an insight into possible creative future careers.”
Young people who use the skate park worked with OUTSIDE’s creative communities producer Emma Dawson Varughese to contribute their thoughts and ideas into the project. We are Culla then ran a workshop at the skate park in September for young people to learn the art of spray painting, mark making and design generation. A second art workshop is planned – details to be announced shortly.
The new mural will be unveiled on Saturday 28th October during Cheadle Arts Festival and school half term.
Sarah Bird, OUTSIDE’s creative director, commented: “We can’t wait to see the mural combining the young people’s ideas and We are Culla’s creative vision. Not only will it revitalise the skate park but it will tell a unique story about the community using the park. We hope the project inspires young people in Cheadle, and the mural is enjoyed by everyone for many years to come.”
Catherine Doel, Chair of Cheadle Arts, the group that organises the Arts Festival and other local arts initiatives says: "Our mission is to increase participation in the arts in and around Cheadle so we are very excited that our collaboration with OUTSIDE has enabled this project to take place."