23/11/2009
A series of colourful murals depicting scenes from community life were unveiled in Cookstown today. The £6,373 project funded through the Arts Council’s Re-imaging Communities Programme, has seen the Ratheen Avenue play park transformed, with sectarian graffiti removed and 12 artworks installed to create a new shared space.
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The regeneration project was led by Ratheen Greenvale and Sullenboy Residents Group and saw over 40 members of the local community, including local children and young people, work with artist Bernie Quinn to create the vivid series of art panels.
Anne Coney, Chair of the Ratheen Greenvale and Sullenboy Residents Group, explained the difference the new artworks have made to the area: “The murals at Ratheen Avenue have transformed the play area. It is a busy pedestrian thoroughfare and regularly used as an access route to the town. The murals have not only improved the area for residents and visitors alike but the project has also brought together members of the community and their children to create new artworks that will last.”
Commenting on the project, Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Chair of the Shared Communities Consortium, said: “Working with a local artist the residents of Ratheen have rejuvenated the area by creating a welcoming communal space which everyone can enjoy.
“The Arts Council’s Re-imaging Communities Programme has provided residents and community groups with the means to reclaim their neighbourhoods and restore civic pride, which are key steps on the road to sustainable regeneration. The new artworks here in Ratheen Avenue are a result of the community’s hard work and dedication. Everyone involved in the project should feel justifiably proud of the difference they have made.”
The Re-imaging Communities Programme is funded through the Shared Communities Consortium, led by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, and includes the partners OFMDFM, DSD, DCAL, Community Relations Council, PSNI, SOLACE (Society of Local Authority and Chief Executives), International Fund for Ireland and NI Housing Executive.
