Graffiti blackspot now home to wildlife artworks
Stunning murals make cycle path more welcoming
Giant artworks have transformed a drab Perth underpass along Route 77 National Cycle Network between Perth and Almondbank.
The community-led art project to create a series of stunning murals at a graffiti blackspot was led by Dundee-based spray painter Pacco Graff who is known for his scaled up ultra-real birds and animal murals.
He got to work with local artists, using spray guns to put giant wildlife designs on a row of concrete pillars, part of an underpass along the popular cycle path.
It is hoped the murals inspire more journeys, not just by cyclists but by walkers and anyone with wheels.
Pacco’s wild project was supported by funding from Transport Scotland through Sustrans Scotland’s ArtRoots programme.
The project is a partnership between walking and cycling charity Sustrans, Perth and Kinross cycle campaign group, ByCycle and Perth and Kinross Council’s Safer Communities Team.
By creating a more welcoming and attractive link along the National Cycle Network route taking people to and from the city away from road traffic, it is hoped even more will be inspired to walk, wheel and cycle for their journeys.
Cosmo Blake, art and diversity coordinator at Sustrans Scotland, said: “We have been delighted to support this transformative, community-led project through the ArtRoots fund.
“These stunning new artworks have already become a focal point for the community.
Councillor Bob Brawn, housing and community safety convenor at Perth and Kinross Council, added: “This area has always been a problem area for us, and community safety staff have had to clear graffiti from it on many occasions.
“The path is very well used by residents and unsightly graffiti does nothing to enhance the reputation of the town, is out of place in such a beautiful area and can make people feel unsafe.
“We were delighted to be involved in this initiative by Sustrans and the outcome is first class.
“Congratulations to everyone involved.” Craigie-Lee Paterson from ByCycle, who lead guided cycle rides around Perthshire, said: “We are very pleased with the exciting new artwork.
“It has created a reason for many to get on their bike to cycle down and have a look.”
Community groups along the National Cycle Network can find out more about funding and support available through the ArtRoots programme by visiting https://www.sustrans.org.uk/our-blog/ projects/2019/scotland/artroots-fundingfor-the-national-cycle-network-inscotland
These stunning artworks have already become a focal point Cosmo Blake