A massive mural which was created by pupils from Chasetown Sports Specialist College along with artist Matt Reeves was unveiled and the Chasewater Railway Heritage Centre on Monday 13th July.
The massive 25 metre mural was organised by Lichfield District Council’s Arts Development team by local artist Mark Reeves and 14 year 9 pupils from the Chasetown Sport Specialist College.
The pupils came up with the design for the mural based on their perception of the heritage railway following a number of visits to the site.
Cllr Ken Humphreys said: “I was very proud to officially unveil the mural. It’s a fantastic piece of modern art that tells a local story. Thousands of rail enthusiasts will see it when they come to Chasewater Railway’s Heritage Centre, and I am sure it will be enjoyed by all.”
Chris Ecob, from Chasewater Railway, commented: “This is Chasewater Railway’s 50th anniversary and what better way to celebrate than to launch a wonderful mural created by local school pupils. It really evokes the sweat and toil that went into the railways of old and we are delighted with it. The railway has had many dealings with local schools and this shows the level of involvement with the local community. Seeing what these guys have created has, in some respects, opened our eyes to how the younger generation see us and will help us to improve our own product.”
David Whiteley, Head of Art at Chasetown, added: “This was a unique opportunity for our art students to create something different. It is a great addition to their portfolios, and will be the envy of every art student in the country.”
The mural was made possible by funding from Lichfield District Council’s Art Development team and Burntwood Community and Learning Partnership.
I came across your article while browsing. I have been writing a blog for a couple of months now, mainly about Chasewater Railway, but I did not know about the unveiling – it’s a bit like a secret society at times!
I have put a link to your blog on mine so that our members can read about it and see your photos.
Thank you.
In my comment yesterday about missing the unveiling, I forgot to mention the mural (age, you know!!). I think it is a first-class piece of art-work – congratulations to all at Chasetown Specialist Sports College. It will indeed be seen by many visitors to the Heritage Centre, not to mention all our members.
Thank you.