Local Artists Poppy Ash and Callum Young Transform Southampton’s Central Station with Vibrant Mural

In a collaborative effort fuelled by the government’s Transforming Cities Fund, Southampton City Council, Network Rail, and South Western Railway have joined forces to bring a burst of colour to the south side of Central Station. This transformative initiative, supported by funding, introduces a striking mural set to become a focal point of the station’s lively atmosphere.

Local artist Poppy Ash, in partnership with muralist Callum Young, leads the project, stemming from an initiative by the University of Southampton’s John Hansard Gallery. The mural, a vibrant addition to the ongoing enhancements in the station forecourt, aims to encapsulate the essence of Southampton’s dynamic culture.

Developed with support from GO! Southampton, Southampton Forward, and John Hansard Gallery, Poppy’s artwork is designed to offer a warm and visually appealing welcome to both residents and visitors.

Councillor Eamonn Keogh, Cabinet Member for Environment and Transport at Southampton City Council, expresses enthusiasm for showcasing local artistic talent and enhancing the city’s visual appeal. The mural stands as a key component of the broader initiative to revamp Central Station, with forecourt improvements nearing completion.

Poppy Ash, a University of Southampton alumna, gained recognition for her vivid design, initially considered for display on the John Hansard Gallery’s building. Although not selected, her work found a new home in the Central Station commission, underscoring Southampton’s commitment to fostering local artistic talent.

Woodrow Kernohan, Director of John Hansard Gallery, emphasised the transformative impact Poppy’s artwork will have on Central Station, capturing Southampton’s diverse art, sport, and culture. The gallery envisions the mural as a catalyst for more opportunities for artists, enhancing the city’s built environment.

Speaking about the project, Poppy Ash expresses excitement about sharing her artwork and celebrating Southampton’s unique qualities. The mural is expected to evolve over time, featuring the work of other local artists, creating a dynamic and ever-changing space for public enjoyment.

The collaboration between Poppy Ash and Callum Young represents the inaugural phase of an exciting opportunity. The initiative invites both emerging and established artists to submit their work, with the chance to be featured on the station’s prominent wall in the future.

Stephen Manion, Executive Director of GO! Southampton, emphasised broader plans to enhance the city centre experience and foster artistic creativity. The mural, as a representation of Southampton’s spirit, is poised to provide an engaging and captivating visual narrative for visitors and residents alike. Southampton Forward’s CEO, Claire Whitaker CBE, echoes this sentiment, noting the mural as a celebration of the city’s creativity and inclusivity.

In summary, the vibrant mural at Southampton’s Central Station stands as a symbol of the city’s commitment to art, culture, and community engagement, promising to be a dynamic addition to the urban landscape.

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