Local artist Ellie Johnson, known as Mrs Murals, has teamed up with community organisations to brighten up the subways in Chaddlewood by decorating the underpasses with beautiful natural scenes.
Initiated by local community campaigner and Green Party representative Ian Poyser, the project engages local schools, tackling issues such as the protection of wildlife and the environment, graffiti, community safety and bringing art to local people.
Ian said:
“Local residents are fed up with graffiti covering newly white washed walls, they are like a blank canvas to taggers and it costs the council money to re-paint. We wanted to brighten up the subways, making them a destination for pedestrians, rather than a place to avoid. So, I approached Ellie & the team to come up with a solution.”
Also involved in the project are Pollenize, whose aim is to protect bees and pollenators, Clean our Patch who are passionate about keeping communities litter free and Art and Energy who deliver art and environmental school sessions.
Mrs Murals said:
“I’m so excited to be involved in this project. I’m passionate about the protection of the environment and wildlife, and bringing art to the local community. It’s a great opportunity to work with other local groups and schools to improve the area and raise environmental awareness. Local residents have been really supportive and have given some heart-warming compliments, including an elderly lady who told me the artwork makes her feel less scared to walk through the subway.”
The themes for the artwork reflect Ian and Mrs Murals’ passion for nature and include flowers, bees, butterflies, birds and trees.
Work is now complete on the first subway at the district shopping area, with others to follow next Spring.
Ellie has made her own tribute to the tragic Keyham victims on this artwork by painting five of the clouds in heart shapes. There are also QR codes at each end of the subway for people to share their ideas for a greener future for Chaddlewood and Plymouth.
The project has been funded by donations by local people, organisations and Plymouth City Council.
