The artwork on two sides of the square, in Goldthorpe, South Yorkshire, pays tribute to the area’s proud heritage while also looking to a bright future.

The artwork has been funded as part of the Goldthorpe Town Deal and has been delivered by Barnsley Council and Beam.

The larger mural on the library wall is titled The Stories. It features wildlife native to the Dearne Valley, references to the area’s heritage and illustrations designed during workshops at local schools.

A smaller, companion piece on the wall at the rear of the square reads:  “Learn from the past; look to the future”.

During their consultation period, Tom and Craig worked closely with community groups and spent two days working with the Year 6 pupils from Highgate Primary Academy to deliver a screen printing workshop.

Designs created by pupils from Highgate Primary Academy during workshops sessions. 

Locals were also invited to a special “Chat and a Brew” drop-in session at The Snap Tin Café, a spray paint workshop at the Methodist church and a “community paint event” was held during the installation of the mural, where local people of all ages contributed to painting the chosen design.

About ‘The Stories’

Flowing ribbons, representing  time, connecting past, present and future, flow from three different books.

The first book is History, with a subtle but respectful nod to mining and also the old Horse and Groom pub. A miner’s lamp and snap tin sit next to the ‘Mine shaft table’ where a Canary perches on top. Black silhouettes of birds, representing coal and shadows, fly out as part of the central theme.

The second book is Nature, reflecting one of the most popular themes mentioned when talking to local people,  due to the excellent local parks and wildlife.

The third book is Future, having met some of the amazing local children during the development of the artwork, it’s clear the future is bright! The design features artwork created by local young people, showing what they love about the place they live.

Birds, symbolising knowledge as well as stories and ideas taking flight, fly out from each book in different styles relating to the book in question. Ivy grows, intertwined with the ribbons, as an evergreen plant known for its resilience.

About STATIC

Founded in 2006 in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, Craig Evans and Tom Jackson of STATIC have painted murals across the UK and as far away as Japan.

STATIC have built a reputation based on bold and striking designs and have a keen eye for detail, creating unique artworks that reflect on culture, personal stories and collective experiences. Find out more at www.welikestatic.com

This is one of several art projects commissioned to bring renewed colour and vibrance to Goldthorpe and the Dearne.

Find out more at barnsley.gov.uk/GoldthorpeArt.

All images © Barnsley Council