The first-ever Stroud Paint Festival transformed the town with a colourful array of murals and street art.
Sign writer Eleanor Harper said: “The diversity of styles is great. As local artists, it’s so satisfying to see everyone carving out their own artistic corner. I asked Lee Kirby, the organiser, if I could be involved, as sign writers don’t often get the chance to work on this scale. I was helped by Leigh Charman and Hope Hanni Eva at Stroud Vision Centre. We hope the freshly painted artwork makes the place look loved and safer, and will reduce tagging in the space.”
Oli Jones of Bayley’s Paints, a sponsor of the event, expressed his enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to have played a small part and are keen to collaborate with the organisers on future events. We hope that having notable art will reduce damage and spruce up unloved parts of the town.”
The festival attracted artists from beyond Stroud, including Think 22, a visiting artist from Dubai and former Wycliffe Art teacher. Now a full-time graffiti artist, Think 22 worked on a space near Travis Perkins and expressed his pleasure at being part of the Street Art Scene in the South-West, noting how exciting it was to see live painting happening in Stroud.
The event also sparked conversations among locals. Ben Jones, 27, from Nailsworth, commented that he was pleased to see the art “brighten up the tunnel” and that it provided “an opportunity to share ideas and have fun.” David Sand, 72, a watercolourist, was impressed with the scale of the pieces, noting that he rarely worked at such large dimensions himself.
Lee Kirby, one of the organisers, highlighted the positive atmosphere among the artists: “One of the artists working at the Market Tavern Boards, known as @soar_nts, was typical of the attitude of those involved – making great large-scale pieces, talking respectfully to passers-by and jamming nicely with his fellow artists.”
