Young people from across the city are coming together to create two new murals – one celebrating poet and Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, and the other reflecting Derry’s vibrant culture and diversity.
A new street-art programme launched by Féile is now underway with young people taking part in hands-on workshops to research and design the murals alongside Derry street-art collective, Peaball, under the theme ‘Building Bridges’.
The project is delivered by Féile Derry, with support from PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Participants from youth clubs in Bishop Street, Newbuildings, Clooney, Irish Street, and Hillcrest will have the chance to work with Ireland’s leading street artists and explore unique mural art across the island.
Commenting on the project’s progress, Féile’s project co-ordinator Ruairi O’Connell said it’s a perfect example of young people leading the way to deliver positive change.
He said: “This project shows how creativity can bring communities together. Young people from across the city are learning new skills, working side by side, building relationships, and shaping the look of their neighbourhoods.
“The Seamus Heaney mural is especially powerful. His words celebrated hope and unity – now his image will stand in Bishop Street as a symbol connecting future generations with one of Ireland’s greatest cultural figures.
“The mural celebrating diversity reflects our city’s changing landscape and the vibrancy of its many cultures and traditions that make this place special and unique.
“Projects like this prove that when young people are given the opportunity to lead, art can transform spaces, spark conversations, and strengthen pride in the communities where they live.”