College students’ wall art helps brighten up centre
STOCKPORT Exchange, part of the town centre’s £1 billion regeneration, is now the proud owner of a colourful mural, thanks to a collaboration with students from Stockport College.
The students were given a brief by partners, Stockport council and national urban regeneration company, Muse Developments, as well as managing agents CBRE, to come up with ideas around the theme of sustainability.
This was chosen to build on the success of the giant Mount Rushmorestyle sculpture of the G7 leaders’ heads, made entirely of discarded electronics and created by musicMagpie.
It was on display in Cornwall during last year’s G7 climate summit, before spending last summer in Stockport Exchange to highlight the growing threat of e-waste.
The students not only had to come up with a design, they were also responsible for the overall project management including health and safety, risk assessment, a commitment to sustainable working practices and obtaining all the necessary permits to install the artwork.
The installation now takes pride of place on a site that is visible by pedestrians walking through the area.
Coun Colin MacAlister, cabinet member for regeneration, said: “The mural looks fantastic and is a colourful addition to Stockport Exchange. Hopefully the project has enhanced the students understanding of Stockport Exchange’s sustainability credentials.”
Cameron Steward, Art and Design Lecturer at Stockport College, said: “Having the opportunity to work with the council and on a large scale mural has been an excellent opportunity for the Level 4 Design & Illustration students.
“The three students have conducted themselves in a professional manner, from meeting council members on site, to submitting designs and communicating throughout the project.
“The final installation reflects their hard work and their ethos in being part of a sustainable Stockport.”
The artwork coincides with work starting on phase 4 of the region’s most accessible business hub.