12 women artists have transformed Belfast’s College Court ahead of International Women’s Day.
If you’ve passed College Court off Castle Street since the weekend, you’ll have seen a magical transformation ahead of International Women’s Day on Wednesday March 8th.
It’s thanks to the work of 12 women artists as part of a Belfast City Council project, funded by the Department for Communities and linked to the council's Future City Centre Programme and "A Bolder Vision" for Belfast.
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The artists were Holly Pereira, Claire Prouvost, Alana McDowell, Marian Noone, Kerrie Hanna, Zippy Reynolds, Danni Simpson, Katriona Designs, Emmalene Blake, Laura Nelson, Jess Tobin, and HM Constance.
Chair of Belfast City Council’s City Growth and Regeneration Committee Councillor Ryan Murphy said: “This artwork has been completed as part of our revitalisation project, which is all about improving the appearance of several Belfast city centre streets.
"It is about increasing footfall, helping to reduce instances of anti-social behaviour and enhancing safety perceptions through painting, lighting, greenery and new artwork. We’re also working on Callender Street, College Street, Upper Arthur Street and Patterson’s Place.
“The artists were briefed and inspired by the area’s history, with street names in this part of Belfast highlighting the significance of education in an ambitious and outward-looking developing city. In the Age of Enlightenment, modernising and democratising education underpinned the spread of new scientific and philosophical ideas that challenged accepted ways of thinking.
“The improvements in education produced a larger and more diverse reading public, increasing demand for printed material across a broad span of social classes and interests. R.Carswell & Son, founded in 1890 a purpose-built warehouse on College Street, was one of the many printworks, stationers and binders in Belfast.
"The artists have done an incredible job of adding colour and vibrancy in this area through their creativity and I look forward to seeing people enjoying the area’s new look and feel.”
Patrick Anderson from the Department for Communities explains: “As well as providing a platform for the artists ahead of International Women’s Day, this project adds a splash of colour and creativity to this part of Belfast. Individually, these pieces are diverse and thought-provoking.
"Collectively, they are a positive addition to the urban landscape which really enhances the area. This initiative uses art in conjunction with the range of other improvements to the streetscape to make the city a better place for residents and visitors alike.”
Pic provided by Belfast City Council press office, permitted use for all
Caption, by Michael Kenwood: Alana Mc Dowell, Belfast born illustrator and graphic designer, was one of 12 women artists who transformed Belfast’s College Court ahead of International Women’s Day
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