Windows of opportunity - Phase two

 

What is it about?

This project aims to both help to improve the appearance of empty shop fronts during the recession, and to help cut arson attacks and criminal damage. Therefore allowing the spirits to lift of those that live work and visit the high street of Cliftonville.

 

The new project is being funded by the Thanet Community Safety Partnership, the Kent Fire and Rescue Service and the government’s Meanwhile fund. The project has been coordinated by Arts Development within Thanet District Council.

 

The ideas for shop premises and artwork came from the officers involved in the project, the public, the businesses in the area and the artists from Total Pap. It has been welcomed by local residents, businesses and councillors bringing hope to the area as they are witnessing positive change. 

 

What has been done so far?

The first to be transformed was the former Albion Book Shop which was followed by the former Cuddles. These have been given coloured vinyl and a theme made out of paper mache, to enhance prospective shop keepers ideas for the niche market that is Cliftonville high street.

 

The latest to be completed was the hoarding for the Munro Cobbs.

This was created by local artist Dan Bass. Using bright eye-catching colours, the images have been carefully chosen to be reminiscent of seaside activities and to illustrate the “Margate 1940” poem by Sir John Betjeman, which speaks fondly of Cliftonville. 

A competition has also been organised through the East Kent Live Literature Network, with the winning poem printed onto a hoarding to sit alongside Betjeman's poem.

 

Cuddles Albion Bookshop Munro Cobb

 

Positive Impact so far?

This project has already proved to be a great success, as the windows that have been transformed have not been vandalised to date, nor have there been any arson attacks.  These windows hope to bring respect to the area, emphasising that all should take responsibility to keep it a safe and enjoyable place to live work and visit.

We have also had visitors from outside of the area, come to admire the windows, and publications have gone as far as the New York Times; which is great for the areas reputation as it rings about a positive image.

 

What comes next?

In the countdown to Turner Contemporary opening, we are delivering new and improving the hoardings in the local area, providing business support and community work in cleaning up the town.