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Youth voices of south Bristol captured in new mural
A large mural capturing the voices and aspirations of young people of south Bristol has been unveiled.
The £12m state-of-the-art youth centre, 224 Youth Zone, revealed the large-scale artwork by the renowned street artist Kid Crayon as the countdown begins to its much-anticipated opening in June.
The mural was co-created with contributions from young people and was supported by Upfest.
Members of the Youth People’s Development Group (YPDG), who have helped shape the Youth Zone from its earliest stages, selected Kid Crayon for the project and worked closely with him through a series of workshops.
They contributed ideas, developed concepts and took part in spray-painting sessions, ensuring the final design reflects their voices and experiences.
Kid Crayon worked closely with young people through a series of workshops during the project – photo: 224 Youth Zone
Kid Crayon described the project as “incredibly rewarding”.
He added: “It’s amazing how something as simple as paint on a wall can help foster a sense of community and pride among these young people.
“It’s one of those rare projects where the brief goes far beyond just designing something visually appealing.”
The large-scale artwork at 224 Youth Zone by the renowned street artist Kid Crayon was unveiled as the countdown begins for its opening – photo: 224 Youth Zone
Unveiled on Friday, the mural has been described as a “celebration of south Bristol’s youth”, capturing themes of identity, community and belonging.
Speakers at the launch highlighted the wider impact of the project, with the 224 Youth Zone set to offer a safe, inclusive space where young people can build skills, explore new interests and access opportunities that could shape future education and career paths.
Speeches were delivered by YPDG member Ruby Miles; Matt Justice, chief executive of 224 Youth Zone; and Anne Nisbet, high sheriff of Bristol, who spoke about the centre’s potential impact.
With pre-opening sessions planned for early members, the mural is being seen as a lasting symbol of a space designed by young people, for young people, with the aim of helping them connect, grow and thrive.
The mural was co-created with contributions from young people and was supported by Upfest – photo: 224 Youth Zone
Kid Crayon has been a key figure in Bristol’s street art scene for over 15 years. Inspired by the animations of Aardman Animations, he studied animation at UWE Bristol before making the city his home.
With several exhibitions to his name Kid Crayon has worked on a variety of projects, ranging from album covers, clothing to toys.
224 Youth Zone will open on June 20, catering for young people aged eight to 19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs.
A set of new murals capturing the voices and aspirations of young people of south Bristol has been unveiled – photo: Milan Perera
The 27,000 sq ft purpose-built facility, which spans two floors will serve around 5,000 young people of the area and beyond.
Young people contributed ideas, developed concepts and took part in spray-painting sessions, ensuring the final design reflects their voices and experiences – photo: Milan Perera
The new set of murals was unveiled as the countdown for the grand opening in June has begun – photo: Milan Perera
The creator of the murals, Kid Crayon, is no stranger to creating striking artworks for over 15 years – photo: Milan Perera
To sign up, visit www.youthmoves224.org/become-a-member
Main photo: 224 Youth Zone
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