In November 2024, visual artist Sarah Edwards from Spare Room Arts was commissioned by Severn Arts, with funding from  Worcestershire County Council’s Public Health department, to co-create a new mural with the community that celebrates their neighbourhood. 

 

Throughout November, Sarah visited every classroom at Westlands First School and Nursery and listened to the children explain what they love most about the area. Each child drew their ideas on paper, which Sarah then pulled together for the final design. The children talked about nature, wildlife and playing outside with friends, and all their ideas have been brought to life in this mural.

 

The children were then invited to work with Sarah to paint the boards with specialist outdoor paint in lots of bright colours. It was fantastic to hear children proudly tell their friends and family which section was theirs.

 

We are thrilled that all 218 children in the school were involved in making this piece of art. The finished mural is truly a collaboration by the whole school and a reflection of the community spirit at Westlands.

 

Pupils at Westlands First School said:

Councillor David Ross, cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing at Worcestershire County Council said:

“I was honoured to be at the unveiling of this inspiring artwork created by the students at Westlands First School. The pride in not only their creation, but the area they live in was wonderful to see. Increasing positivity within the local community will make a huge difference towards improving health outcomes for people in the Westlands area and I am glad to see the pupils at the school leading the way.”

Sarah is director of Spare Room Arts, a visual arts company that delivers a range of inclusive arts activities in schools, youth centres, day centres and special schools, as well as festivals across the UK.