Call for Guernsey artist to paint mural for youth housing

Wednesday, 28 May 2025 12:20

Action for Children and Guernsey Arts are looking to commission an artist to create a mural to uplift a communal outdoor space.

Action for Children (AFC) has a number of flats to house young islanders who are at risk of homelessness.

Collaborating with Guernsey Arts, the charities plan to enhance the communal garden of one accommodations.

They intended to pay a local artist £1,000 to paint an 8-metre-wide mural.

Community Officer Jade Kershaw says art can be comforting.

"A lot of these young people are living in this situation on their own, so to be able to provide a space where they can just chill is quite a positive thing for people who have had quite a hard time.

"There's a lot of research on the arts being good for mental health.

"We have been working with the young people to create the brief and understand exactly what they want.

"Based on that, we want something with a bright and bold design, but also incorporating a lot of floral and natural elements."

AFC's Children’s Services Manager Aaron Davies says it is a win-win - the children get a positive environment and the artists gets a unique canvas.

“We know engaging in projects around the arts improves long-term outcomes for young people, and we are always pleased to work with Guernsey Arts on new projects and ideas.

"This particular project allows us to design a space where young people can create a sense of community, peer support and pride where they live.

"Having the opportunity for young people to work with an established artist is exciting,g and we are grateful to Guernsey Arts for making this idea come to fruition.”

Artists must submit their design to Jade@arts.gg before 1 June.