Help create a New landmark in Reading

People in Reading are being invited to take part in a special community art project this summer.

The Solar Mural is being created by artist Commando Jugendstil and New Directions College. The project combines art, renewable energy and community involvement to create a unique new landmark for the town.

Free workshops will take place across Reading throughout August. Anyone can join and help paint the mural, even if they have no artistic experience.

Funded by Arts Council England, the project will transform a wall at New Directions College into a large interactive artwork. The mural will feature painted designs alongside specially designed solar panels that generate clean, renewable energy.

The completed mural will include lights, sounds and sensors that react to people as they walk past, creating an engaging and welcoming experience for visitors.

Residents can drop in and take part in painting sessions:

• Saturdays, 10am to 6pm, throughout August at Reading Bike Hub, King Street.
• Tuesday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, at New Directions College, Northumberland Avenue, until 29 August.

There is no need to register in advance. Everyone is welcome to get involved and help create a lasting piece of public art for Reading.

Read more information on the project.

Councillor Rachel Eden, Lead Councillor for Education and Public Health, said:

“The Solar Mural is very exciting community arts project which is being created with residents, volunteers and learners from New Directions College.

“The project is about bringing people together, encouraging conversations around sustainability and showing that green technology can be creative and accessible.

“People who enjoy being creative can give as much or as little time as they wish at the painting sessions, while meeting new people and learning new skills. Just turn up, pick up a paintbrush and join in.

“You will be helping to create a landmark that people can feel proud of and that celebrates community, creativity and a more sustainable future for Reading.”