ROUND ONE

In February 2012, the WOOD STREET INSIDE OUT open art competition drew almost 100 entries. The competition, to produce an original artwork that best evokes the special qualities of Wood Street, was won by artist Guy Haywood. His bold graphic raises the spirits, voicing a very positive sentiment which many people should be happy to adopt: there are no limits to what we can achieve! 

The artwork was reproduced as a limited edition on 1000 cotton shopping bags, which were distributed by host shops and settings along the length of Wood Street. 

From January to April 2012, three commissions offered opportunities for local people to collaborate with artists to explore themes such as identity, association and change, and, in doing so, bring new life to Wood Street.

POP UP PICTURE PALACE  

Inspired by the former film studios and cinemas on Wood Street, artists Emily Tracy & Lizzy Hobbs collaborated with local school pupils and residents to create a wonderful site specific animated film for a public screening at the junction of Wood Street and Vallentin Road.



TALL TALES

Artist Vic Lee, gathered local peoples’ memories, tales and secrets about Wood Street and the neighbourhood, and retold them with a cheeky twist, in a unique, playful portrait of the place. Tall Tales wrapped the hoardings alongside Wood Street Library with elaborate text and illustrations. 


WHEN WOOD STREET DRAWS



Local artist Della Rees and art collective Artillery worked with a range of local traders and service providers to host a programme of playful public drawing games. Over 100 participants recorded their experiences of the neighbourhood and contributed to a charming book of drawings that explored the character and potential of Wood Street.    


In March 2012 SHOPPORTUNITY pilot projects sought to improve high street frontages of two small independent businesses. 





Illustration studio Animaux Circus partnered Limpopo Butchery and art and architecture practice PublicWorks collaborated with Second Nature Healthfoods, each with charming results.