A powerful new mural celebrating the many cultures and communities that now call Derry home has been created at Chapel Road as part of a PEACEPLUS Street Art Reimaging project led by Féile in collaboration with street artist collective Peaball.
The finished mural centres around a vibrant mosaic vase representing many separate pieces coming together as one, while the flowers growing from it reflect the individuality, creativity and beauty of different cultures living alongside one another.
The ‘Where Cultures Bloom’ mural was developed with young people from across the city who came together to learn about the history of street art in Ireland and help shape a piece of art reflecting the people, cultures and traditions that make up the city today.
Young people from Our Space Youth Club, Hillcrest Youth Club, Clooney Youth Club and the North West Migrants Forum all took part in the project, working together through a series of workshops and creative sessions.
They also travelled to Belfast for a street art tour of the city centre, learning more about the history and influence of murals and public art across Ireland.
Féile’s project coordinator Ruairí O’Connell said the project showed the power of art to bring young people together.
He said: “It’s been brilliant to see young people from all communities come together through this project and build friendships while creating something really positive for the area.
“The workshops gave participants the chance to learn about the history of street art and murals across Ireland, develop new creative skills and have real input into the final design of this beautiful mural.
“We’ve seen the power public art can have in transforming spaces and creating pride in an area. This mural is a reflection of the many cultures and communities that call our city home and a positive celebration of our diversity.
“It’s also a reminder of what can happen when young people from all communities are given the chance to work together, share ideas and shape the places they live in.”
The project was supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body, creating opportunities for young people to come together, share experiences and see new perspectives.
