Fine art and photography students at Ron Dearing UTC have completed a colourful mural to raise awareness of climate change.
Nine Year 11 students worked with Mexican mural artist Gustavo Chavez Pavon to show the impact climate change and flooding could have on Hull in the future as part of the Shorelines Project.
Gustavo, who works across the world, recently created a mural at Scottish Opera’s production studios in Glasgow during the global United Nations (UN) climate change conference COP26.
He said: “This is a very good example of hands-on learning and the students have brought their individual styles to the mural. I’ve really enjoyed working with them and everyone involved.”
The Shorelines Project was created by Rights : Community : Action, a coalition of campaigners, lawyers, planners, facilitators, writers and scientists with a shared commitment to tackling the climate emergency.
The group is working in partnership with Drunk Animal Creative Studio in Hull, linking action to art through a series of large scale murals across the city.
The mural, which also involved Friends of the Earth and local artists, now needs a home and the team behind the project are looking for a prominent public space in Hull to display the piece.
Jonny Winn, Project Manager at Drunk Animal Creative Studio, said: “Our generation and generations before haven’t done enough to tackle climate change and these students are the future.
“They are very passionate about climate change and that comes through in the mural, which shows the tidal barrier breaking, butterflies, bees and flooding. We’re now looking for somewhere to display it for all to see.”
Rights : Community : Action Chief Executive Naomi Luhde-Thompson said: “I’m blown away by the mural. It’s so powerful and the students have put so much work into it. It shows a lot of hope and energy and it’s really positive. It’s their future and their voice, which is what’s important.”
Lynn Garland-Collins, Creative Director at Ron Dearing UTC, praised the students for their enthusiasm and creativity.
She said: “I’m extremely proud of our students and over moon with what they have achieved.
“Art is a visual language and it’s fantastic to see their ideas come together. This has been a truly unique experience and it’s wonderful for them to work with Gustavo.”
Student Samuel Fewlass, 15, said: “Creating the mural was fun and a new experience. I’m proud to be part of it and I think we’ve got the climate change message across.”
Fellow student Emma Giblin, 15, said: “I’ve never done anything like this before and it’s great to be able to share our artwork and see what other people think.”