Renowned artists to celebrate the Borough with new artworks
- Mosaics and murals created by renowned artists to adorn Borough high streets
- Public art will help highstreet recovery
- A new engaging treasure trail will uncover Ormskirk's past
West Lancashire Borough Council are delighted to announce the installation of three new artworks in the Borough by renowned artists to celebrate the unique high streets of West Lancashire, as part of the Welcome Back Fund series of initiatives.
Ormskirk will soon showcase an interactive and engaging mosaic artwork by acclaimed international artist Carrie Reichardt. Her piece will encapsulate the origin of Ormskirk with 'Orme' the Viking depicted chasing a gingerbread man, who in turn represents the long-running industry of gingerbread making in the town. Carrie will be fusing age-old mosaic art techniques with the local mythos to create a unique piece to enhance Ormskirk's historic highstreet.
Paul Curtis, the artist behind Liverpool's famous wings mural, will create another timeless piece for Ormskirk Town Centre, which is for now being kept under wraps. Although it's only a matter of time before his work is unveiled. Curtis' expertise in creating large murals and street art will make a connection with local businesses who have been ticking away for centuries.
Burscough will also host a stunning new mosaic to pay homage to the abundance of local fauna and natural beauty. Artist Amanda Anderson's incredible skills working with glass and ceramic bring to life the joy and excitement of spotting a bird in the wild. Between Burscough Bridge and Burscough Wharf, the piece will be add to the charm of the village and its wonderous countryside.
Ideas are also being looked in to which will visually enhance Sandy Lane shopping Centre in Skelmersdale with a colourful art installation using the same funding stream.
Councillor Ian Moran, Leader of West Lancashire Borough Council and portfolio holder for Economic Regeneration, said: "We're delighted to welcome such acclaimed artists to the Borough. Our highstreets have been through a very difficult time and an initiative like this will help boost footfall and therefore the local economy.
"Our high streets are the lifeblood of our communities and these artworks will be a fantastic addition to them."
To celebrate the Ormskirk artworks, at the end of March you will be able to take part in the new Treasure Trail to uncover the local history that surrounds the historic market town. Grown-ups can follow their little Vikings in a quest to the past, uncovering the hidden secret gingerbread recipe whilst adventuring around iconic locations in Ormskirk.
Keep an eye on the Council's social media channels for more news about the artworks. If you'd like to have a sneak peek and tell us what you think of our fantastic new artworks, you can let us know in a feedback session at Purely Pizza, Burscough on Wednesday on March 9 from 10am-12pm.