This September the Upside Gallery project has transformed the grey concrete pillars that support the Wessex Way.
The underpass that crosses through Bournemouth Gardens will be transformed to showcase the wide variety and talent that has risen from street art and graffiti. It will show how art can transform and reinvent spaces.
The Wessex Way bridge and underpass was built in the 1970’s and is around the height of nine metres of what some may describe as fairly drab and austere concrete but with the help of eleven respected local and national artists, the pillars of the underpass will be turned into huge art canvasses full of vibrant street art.
Some of the artists include Ricky Also, Remi Rough, Best Ever and Gary Stranger.
The initiative is supported by Arts Council England and is being driven by Bournemouth based creative agency Paintshop Studio who have teamed up with Greenwood Campbell, a local digital agency.
An inspiring place for locals and tourists.
It is hoped to make the gardens an inspiring place for locals and tourists to visit and pass through. The artists started creating the permanent outdoor gallery on 9th September and the project was completed on 22nd September 2019.
This is to build on Bournemouth’s reputation as a creative and digital hub. It will allow visitors of the gallery to go beyond the wall and access more information about the concepts, artists and production techniques. This will be available via QR codes which will be placed next to each piece of art.
Rick Walker is the Upside Project Curator and the Co-founder of Paintshop Studio and said: “We are very proud of this project and to be working with such an incredible line up of artists, from all across the country, helping to transform this space into something truly amazing.
“The artists have been chosen to showcase the talent and diverse range of styles found in the graffiti and street art movements and to present the art form in a positive light.
“This project has been created with a genuine love for the area and passion to create something for the whole community to enjoy.”
Paintshop Studio also have also bee involved in other pieces of outdoor art in Bournemouth including a brightening up of the St. Swithun’s underpass in Bournemouth which connects Bournemouth Train Station and the town centre.
For more information visit the Upside Gallery website.