Art / Chantal Meza
Artist paints ‘burning embers’ of Underfall Yard’s hope
An artist has painted her reflection of the recovery work at Underfall Yard after she was left “affected” by the devastating fire at the yard.
‘The burning embers of hope’, was created by Mexico-based artist Chantal Meza who has several memories of visiting the yard before the fire.
Meza who is now settled in Bristol, approached the trustees of the yard with the idea of creating a bespoke painting.
is needed now More than ever
The artist who will also be making an appearance at the yard’s Christmas market, recalled: “I remember the first time I visited the yard. There was something about the smell, the bustle, the workmanship and the energy of humans amidst the oils, steel and wood that reminded me of where I grew up.
Meza used to visit the yard frequently before the fire
She continued: “This painting reflects the devastation of the fire, but also the positivity and hopefulness that shone through during this dark time. After all, the colours of a rainbow are only visible on rainy days.
“Bristol is a very special place. I’ve been embraced by the community since moving here, and I’ve been able to give back to the city by creating this artwork.”
Meza’s work is often inspired by ecological destruction and disappearing worlds. But for this piece, she aimed to look beyond the destruction and embrace the “outpouring of support” that the yard has received since the fire.
The sight of Meza’s painting brings to mind another artwork by Bristol School of Artists that was once exhibited in a French Museum.
The painting will be available for bids in person or through an online form
Boat-builder and Underfall Yard’s tenant Joe de Tisi has offered to create a frame for the painting, crafted from reclaimed timber of one of the fire-damaged buildings.
Talking about the “heartbreaking” fire, he said: “Seeing Underfall Yard damaged by the fire was heartbreaking, not just for the loss of the historic shed and workshops but for the devastating effect on the people who make this place truly remarkable.
“This frame is made from timber salvaged from the shipwrights’ workshop where I spent many hours learning my craft. It honours the history, resilience, and the people who have shaped the yard into what it is today.”
The painting will be placed on auction between November 19 to December 8, with any accepted bids going towards the yard’s recovery work.
Director of Underfall Yard, Sarah Murray said: “This is an opportunity to bid for a truly unique piece of art and support our essential work to rebuild the yard.
“Don’t miss out on the chance to view Chantal’s painting while it’s exhibited!”
All photos: Underfall Yard
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