If you have explored the Wichelstowe Trails area you will have found many examples of nature inspired public art created by some amazing artists. We are delighted that there is a new artwork to be added to the list and even better it is being painted by a Wichelstowe resident.
Harrie Dearing approached the Council to ask if she could transform one of the canal underpasses which has been repeatedly tagged with graffiti. The necessary approvals were secured and a massive thank to South Swindon Parish Council for giving the painting surface a clean.
It is fantastic that Harrie is donating her time (and paint!) for free to help improve the community environment and we can’t wait to see it finished. It is a suitable tribute to the swans that make Wichelstowe their home, even if occasionally they try and take over a road and need to be dealt with by the police!
Harrie said ‘ I feel incredibly grateful to call Wichelstowe my home. The canals and lakes are a beautiful asset to our area—my dog and I enjoy them daily. When I first saw this underpass, it struck me as the perfect canvas for a piece of public art, and I’ve been pursuing the opportunity to paint it ever since. This mural is inspired by the wildlife we share Wichelstowe with, and takes creative influence from the iconic Water Lilies paintings by Monet. It’s an absolute joy to gift this new artwork to my community. ‘
Harries can be found at Harriedearingart.com or on instagram @harriedeartingart or facebook @harriedearingartist
Following the overwhelmingly positive feedback to the artwork Harrie has produced an activity booklet.
Harrie said “While painting this mural I was genuinely touched by the heartfelt engagement from young children and their fascination with the artwork unfolding. This made me want to do more to encourage their own creativity and relationship we with our beautiful landscape around wichelstowe. So I decided to make this small activity pack as a free download. Games, puzzles, colouring and prompts to make their own art. It’s perfect timing with the summer holidays, and makes a great little adventure walking along the canal. ”
