A view to the history of Plymouth through a shop window

‘Plymouth through the ages’ has been captured by University Arts students in a stunning city centre illustration display to coincide with the UK’s biggest contemporary art exhibition.

Co-ordinated by Plymouth University Lecturer in Illustration, Tom Barwick, a group of undergraduates and graduates were commissioned by Plymouth City Centre Company to design murals to be used in the regeneration of the old Woolworths shop which fronts on to Cornwall Street and New George Street.

The Cornwall Street mural depicts historic characters of Plymouth, from past to present, interacting on a fictional street.

While the New George Street mural is a celebration of live performance and music, as the area is often used for busking.

The idea was pitched to Tom by Jodie Bishop, Public Art Officer for Plymouth City Council and Clint Jones, Manager for Plymouth City Centre Company.

Tom said: “This project has given the illustration students a doorstep opportunity to show off their talents. It is also a wonderful chance to draw in potential new students by showing them what they can achieve.

“Arts enthusiasts, who are visiting the City to see the British Art Show 7, will also be able to take in the spectacular display.”

The work, which will be seen on a grand scale as it fills the large plate glass windows of the shop frontage, has been digitally printed onto vinyl stickers.

Plymouth City Centre Manager, Clint Jones, said: “The display is absolutely spectacular, and a great way to brighten up the old Woolworths shop front. The murals will be an attraction to anyone interested in the history of Plymouth and the city’s arts and music culture, as well as those who want to see how fantastically talented the university students are.”

The Hayward Touring British Art Show 7, brought to the city by Plymouth Visual Arts Consortium and running until December, is exhibited across city centre venues including the Peninsula Arts Gallery at Plymouth University, Plymouth Arts Centre, Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery, Plymouth College of Art Gallery and The Slaughterhouse, Royal William Yard.

ENDS