Window Mural Project

This project is led by accomplished artist George Smith who has a strong background in working with a variety of community groups using art as a way to address social issues. He has carried out various projects on topics such as anti-bullying, racism and sectarianism. Playbusters are pleased to have him working with the community on this exciting project.

It will provide a striking visual window display that will brighten up the local enviroment and will celebrate the rich heritage of the East End and also look forward to the regeneration taking place.

Glasgow has seen many changes since earning the title "Second City of the Empire". The past degeneration has made way to a city that is now thriving and is looking to a prosperous future. This is borne out by the confidence returning to the city with the awarding of the Commonwealth Games in 2014.

The aim of this project is to encapsulate the transformation that has occurred int he city and capture the essence of the regeneration of Glasgow. What better way to contrast the past, present and future than through the eyes of a child - or several of them! And what can be more appropriate than featuring the free spirit of children coming together without fear or prejudice, doing what they have always done - playing together.

This running theme of the mural will feature childrewn through the ages and will highlight the social and economic changes which have affected Glasgow. From barefoot urchins in the 19th century to the modern, fashion-conscious child of the 21st. From the social deprivation of the past looking towards a bright new future.

All manner of games will be included which will show not only how much some things have changed, but how much they have stayed the same. Traditional games will start the sequence e.g. hopscotch, leapfrog, tig - through to the inevitable football match and finsihing with an athlete crossing the finishing line at the Commonwealth Games.

The scene will move seamlessly through the ages (defined by style, quality of clothing etc) and will run the entire length of the series of windows. There will also be room to include amusing cameos or poignant images which will attract comment e.g. children who are excluded (in the past, polio victims, for example).

These images will provide the main focus but there will be a backdrop of buildings which feature Glasgow's East End through the ages. From the old Gallowgate via the Forge and culminating in the Velodrome being built for the Commonwealth Games. These images will provide the required colour in contrast to the more monochrome depictions of children.

It is important to engage with as many people as possible and that their input is encouraged and valued. It is also expected that the mural project will incorporate the many facets of Playbusters such as enviromental projects, Beardmore Park, Connecting Generations, Play Areas and Easy Spanish.

If you would like to be part of this project then we want to hear from you.

0141 551 0071            info@playbusters.org.uk                       www.playbusters.org.uk