Street Art
Street Art is one of the most popular and growing forms of personal expression and can provide a positive outlet for young people, especially when well-structured with a focus on specific skills.
The South-West is internationally known for its street art, being the home of Banksy. Many towns near Stroud are hosts to high quality public artists and this matters to many young people who live in Stroud Town. Cheltenham Paint Festival is upheld as a positive example of a town embracing the power of public art.
By negotiating suitable places for young people to practice their art, Stroud Town Council hopes to build positive relationships with the town's young people.
Street Art in Stroud
Stroud is known for its vibrant arts scene, and street art has become an important part of that in recent years. The Town Council has been running workshops for young people to try out graffiti art and learn new skills. These workshops have been fully booked, showing the enthusiasm for street art among Stroud's youth.
The latest addition is a new mural on the railway bridge at Beard's Lane, created during a half-term workshop run by the Town Council in partnership with Paganhill PCSO Amy Webb and the Neighbourhood Wardens. Artist Lee Kirby, known as The Art of 3rdEye, led a group of 9 young people aged 11-15 in creating the mural, brightening up a well-used area. The project was supported by The National Lottery Community Fund.
Street art murals have also popped up around The Market Tavern as part of a collaboration between the owners and the Town Council. These temporary boards provide an ideal canvas for local artists. The free workshops held so far provide opportunities for young people to practice street art with a professional artist.
Councillor Stella Parkes said: "We're thankful to The National Lottery Community Fund for its support. The permanent mural has brightened up an area that is well used by school and college students. These workshops provide mentoring from a professional artist and allow young people to feel connected to the community."
In July, Stroud will be host to the first year of Stroud Paint Festival, where street artists from around the region will create stunning new murals. This will be a chance to celebrate creativity and add to the town's artistic landscape. The Street Art Festival is being held by Lee Kirby theartof3rdeye@yahoo.co.uk and more information can be found on Facebook at: https://fb.me/e/3yBmGRXr1
"Stroud Paint Festival: Where art & community collide!
Get ready for an explosion of colour and creativity as Stroud transforms into a living canvas! Witness local artists bring walls and boards to life with stunning street art.
But this isn't just a show – it's an experience!
Join engaging workshops, cheer on young artists, and be part of a movement that's revitalizing Stroud's artistic spirit.
Here's what awaits:
Community Vibes: Learn, create, and connect – workshops for all!
Revitalized Spaces: Watch underused areas bloom with vibrant art.
Artistic Hub: Celebrate Stroud's burgeoning art scene!
Cultural Buzz: Put Stroud on the map as a must-visit destination!
Mark your calendars for July 7th, 2024!
Follow us for updates, artist profiles, and volunteer opportunities. Spread the word and invite your friends!"
Street art provides a positive outlet for young people and brings vibrancy to Stroud. By supporting these projects, the Council is building relationships with youth, engaging them in shaping their environment, and promoting Stroud as a hub for arts and culture.
"Thank you so much to you and everyone who helped to organise this morning's session and for giving my son the opportunity to put his passion and skills into action! He struggles with his confidence at times but he's come home really proud of himself and his creativity, having been really engaged and learning throughout and can't wait to show his family what he's created. It sometimes seems as though there isn't enough for teens to get involved with locally but this made our half term! Thank you to all for having him and making this possible." (Parent of teenager participant).
Diversionary activities can assist the police by creating a positive climate for young people to encounter mentoring and to see authority figures in a fresh light, many studies have shown a reduction in anti-social behaviours.
Read more about the value of cultural diversionary activities: