New mural is the ice cream of the crop
RESORT PUB TRANSFORMED
AN artist who is renowned for painting eclectic murals in locations across the globe has created a surreal and colourful work of art in Cleethorpes.
Woskerski has worked in countries including the US, France and Spain. His latest commission is on the side of the Old Vic pub, in Grant Street.
The mural, on a seaside theme, depicts a combination of wildlife and ice cream against a blue sky. “From my perspective, I feel a great sense of responsibility whenever I paint, purely because I don’t live here, I just come and paint, and I’m changing people’s surroundings in a permanent way,” Woskerski said. “They’re going to be waking up and looking at the wall every day when they go to work, so I always want to make sure I do my best and do my work to the best quality.” He began working on the huge mural a fortnight ago, using a cherry picker that lifts him up to 40ft high. He has been commissioned by Creative Start, the community art and health group, as part of the Paint Cleethorpes Proud project. Woskerski added: “Ninety-nine per cent of the time people are very happy and enjoy it, so there is a responsibility on my side to make sure it’s not offensive and a really positive piece, and people love it. It’s my own art, but this is a public space and commissioned, so it has to tick all the boxes.” He said reactions from passers-by had been incredibly positive. “I’ve only had positive feedback from members of the public so far. A lot of people stop me and show interest,” he added. Councillor Hayden Dawkins, portfolio holder for culture, heritage and the visitor economy at North East Lincolnshire Council, said: “Art like this can make people feel proud of their towns, as the murals are usually personal to the area.
“This particular mural is in a fantastic position and will be seen by our visitors as they arrive in the resort on trains, or by the many coaches parking at the nearby coach park. It’s the first thing that many will see as they arrive, as it will be bold and colourful.
“Murals can also make lasting memories, especially in the minds of children and young people, who may see their cheery messages and remember them for the rest of their lives.” The mural is due to be finished today.