Students from Greenfield Community College and Shildon Youth Group ‘Teen Spirit’ have been working alongside local artists to create a visual legacy for passengers to enjoy on the platform at Shildon railway station.
The project, funded by BASH and developed by Greenfield Arts, has not only provided a stunning collection of public art it has also provided a platform for young people to develop and voice their ideas through creative learning.
The young people have been working with artists Nicola Golightly and Laura Degnan to shout about the many merits of the town and in particular, the significance of the railway, helped along by ‘Friends of Shildon Railway’.
Teacher Lauren Braithwaite along with Yr 9 art students from Sunnydale campus began the project with a brief to explore the past, present and future of Shildon and the students rose to the challenge showing creative flair and a real interest in the history of the town.
Nicola has also been working with Lucy Mann and members of ‘Teen Spirit’ who have made a wonderful contribution to the project.
Project Manager Nicola said: “It’s been great to work with the young people of Shildon and see their positivity and determination to have an active involvement in a piece of public art.”
The voices and perceptions of the students can be seen within the artwork which has recently been part of an Exhibition at the Civic Hall and was launched at Shildon Railway this week.
The launch of the artwork was celebrated by an unveiling by the Mayor of Shildon, Cllr Trish Pemberton, and a site-specific dance performance from Greenfield Community College students, who have been working hard with dance teacher and choreographer Mrs Dixon to help celebrate the day.
Sophie Lewis, Greenfield Arts and Community Centre Co-ordinator, added: “It was a brilliant way to celebrate the work of the young people and bring together the proud community of Shildon.”