Latest news with #BedfordCreativeArts
BBC News
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Bedford's new underpass artwork to show 'light and positivity'
An underpass that needed some "tender loving care" has been updated and renovated with a vibrant design to represent "light and positivity".The subway by the Embankment and Aspects Leisure Park in Bedford was prone to flooding and has fully reopened after being closed for several lighting has been installed, a water leak fixed and the pavement resurfaced.A mural was painted on the walls by artists, helpers and young people from Castle Newnham School and Bedfordshire's youth offending service. Bedford Creative Arts, who were commissioned by Bedford Borough Council to brighten up the area, said: "It had been in need of some TLC for a long time, often being prone to flooding."Local artists Sarah Harrison and Paige Denham, collaborated with young people on the design and artwork. Bedfordshire Youth Offending Service manager Pat Jennings said young people had told them about "the biases and stigma that surround people who may have been associated with negative behaviours in the past"."It led to a discussion about poetry and song, which inspired 'a vibrant design representing light and positivity'." She said they acknowledged the "importance of inspiration to help you overcome everyday struggles." A participant from the young offender scheme said: "I wasn't sure I would be any good at it but I have really enjoyed it and am proud of the painting I've done."Fellow painter Matilda said: "I really like all the colours and shapes."Passer-by Valerie Bailey said the renovation looked amazing and asked if the group could "do the rest of the town".The project was supported by ward funds from Bedford Borough Green councillors Lucy Bywater, Paul Edmonds, Liberal Democrat councillor Hilde Hendrickx and a grant from the Safer Bedfordshire Community Bywater said: "It's an amazing and cheerful design that really brightens the underpass and makes the experience of using it so much more joyful than before." Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
BBC News
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- BBC News
Young writers say town is 'awesome' in Book of Bedford guide
A guide book compiled by schoolchildren "definitely slays" when it comes to describing their part-fiction Book of Bedford has been collated with contributions from 265 local pupils, with the aim of showcasing the town through children's eyes. Bedford Creative Arts, who were behind the project - along with artists Andy Field, Beckie Darlington and Katie Allen - said it colourfully illustrated a "place that is teeming with joy".Writer Aeirth said: "It makes me think Bedford is a way better place." Bedford Creative Arts said it painted the town as "a place of rivers and greenery and architecture... A very historical and educational place full of exciting things."The Book of Bedford includes drawings and stories by pupils from Brickhill, King's Oak, Priory and Putnoe primary schools. "I think it's really cool, it's got a bunch of different writings in it and it's really colourful too," added Aerith. Madina said: "It totally definitely slays. That's the main reason you should get it.""It will make me look at Bedford way more differently. I'm like, Bedford's awesome," added Aiéhla."It's a funny read and you can also learn about Bedford," said Riccardo."It shows you all the hideouts and shows you lots we love about Bedford," said Emmanuel. Zoshia, from Putnoe Primary, said she loved working on the project as one of its 16 editors. "I really like Russell Park and it's climbing frames and it's location near the river," she said."[Bedford], I think it's quite a calm place which includes a lot of greenery and parks, I like it a lot here. "It's a lovely place you should definitely visit it and have a walk near the Embankment and explore the town centre and it's beauty." Ms Allen, a Bedford-based illustrator, said: "Interpreting the children's words was extremely fun, allowing me to draw things like imaginary boba tea statues, but also iconic Bedford locations that the children think are important. "I've got a new perspective from the children's point of view - they really care about road safety, litter, and most of all, opportunities to have fun, and I think we should listen to them." The Book of Bedford is free to download and can be purchased from the Eagle Gallery, on St Peters project was supported by Bedford Educational Association, The Harpur Trust, Gale Family Charity Trust and Arts Council England. Follow Beds, Herts and Bucks news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
