The striking new Elliott Street Mural is the culmination of months of research, planning and design work from students at Fred Longworth High School in collaboration with artist Emma Hardaker (you’ll have seen her work if you wander through the trendier parts of Manchester, Sheffield or Leeds!). Its fusion of contemporary design with nods to Tyldesley’s heritage and architecture create a head-turning impact that will be a fixture of our town for years to come.
In the research stages of the project, students from Fred Longworth High School headed out into Tyldesley on a mission to uncover the interesting, often overlooked aspects of the town’s historic buildings. The rich variety of architecture is represented in the mural in a unique way; using bold colours and geometric design to celebrate the town’s past with one eye firmly on the future. The homage featured in each tile of the mural can be found across the town, and plans are underway to feature a QR code on the design, where visitors can uncover a heritage trail to the various locations that inspired the design.
“The aim of the project was to create something that was vibrant and contemporary, that the young people of Tyldesley could feel connected to, whilst also referencing the heritage and history of the area” said Emma Hardaker, the artist who was chosen to design the mural along with Year 11 students from Fred Longworth. Hollie Myles-Moffat, the Art and Design teacher that led the project at the school is thrilled to see the project finally come to life. Hollie said “It’s been a joy being a part of this project and it’s so surreal and exciting to see the students’ work take shape on Elliott Street. It’s a brilliant legacy for them and the school.”
“I’ve never really looked at Tyldesley in this way before.” said Axl Hodgkinson, one of the students involved in the project. “It was so interesting to be part of a project that celebrates the different parts of our town. I’m proud that something I was a part of will be up there for future generations to see.”