Art / public art
Artists set to transform section of M32 junction at Eastville
Two weeks of work to brighten up a section of the M32 begins on February 28, on the underside of Eastville viaduct.
A team of artists from LitterARTI are collaborating with National Highways and Bristol City Council on the project, which it is hoped will make a tangible difference to the environment of the local community, as well as for road users.
We want Bristol’s M32 gateway to be a clean and welcoming environment,” says Sean Walsh, route manager for National Highways. “Our work goes beyond operating, maintaining and improving roads.
is needed now More than ever
“We’re investing in the environment and communities surrounding our network, as well as the people travelling and working on it. We aim to address social and environmental issues and add real value to society.”
The initial idea for the project came from community member and local resident Maire De Burca, who attracted support via social media, and then lead artists Sadie Phew and Conrico Steez came forward to manage the initative as it developed.
With grant writing support from Oblique Arts, the team secured funding from Bristol City Council’s Originators Fund which enabled them to commission artists, and further explore permission from National Highways, before eventually teaming up with Annali Grimes and LitterARTI to support the final stages of the project.
Similar grey columns under the M32 show the current state of the viaduct – photo: National Highways
The chosen designs for the columns were decided upon from community questionaire feedback requesting a focus on nature, bright bold shapes and colours. Commissioned artists Aumairah Hassan and Manazzar Siddique from Peace of Art were delighted to be sharing their mutual love of nature, ecology and conservation through their artwork.
Speaking for LitterARTI, Grimes is optimistic for the symbolism of the project. “By brightening up and beautifying the area, it will definitely lift spirits of local people and will improve the space for communities and pedestrians around and along the M32 corridor,” she affirms.
“Hopefully this is the beginning of more improvements to come in the future.”
Previous work to clean up formerly derelict site at Eastville viaduct in 2017 – photo: Ellie Pipe
Main photo: LitterARTI
Read more: Project to reclaim M32 underpass needs funding
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