A WORLD-renowned artist is set to bring some extra colour and vitality into Coventry’s Hertford Street as part of preparations for the City of Culture year.
Morag Myerscough is working with Coventry City Council on the existing architecture and will be transforming Hertford Street with bold expressions of colour and planting in a dramatic art installation which is set to be installed over the spring months.
Morag’s work is rooted in creating a sense of joy and belonging for all those who encounter it.
From schools and hospitals to cultural hubs and town centres, Morag transforms public spaces by creating engaging experiences for everyone.
Coun Patricia Hetherton, Cabinet Member for City Services, said: “Morag is an internationally renowned artist and I’m delighted that she wants to come and work in Coventry.
“Her signature style is amazing and I’m sure it will go down a treat in Hertford Street.
“She has drawn up an impressive planting scheme, which combined with a pop of colour, will really finish off Hertford Street and make it an impressive route from Bull Yard to Broadgate.
“We are set to enjoy a great year as City of Culture and I can’t wait for this work to get started.”
Coun David Welsh, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, said: “It’s fantastic to be working in partnership with Morag to be able to brighten up this space.
“While we are still drawing up plans with Morag, we’re looking forward to getting the artwork installed over the summer and bringing some of her signature style to a public space which can be enjoyed by all.”
A few weeks ago, council staff began cleaning the canopy area on Hertford Street and preparatory painting work will soon begin.
Morag said: “Community is at the heart of every project I do.
“Hertford Street has so much potential.
“We aim to change perceptions of space by transforming the canopy walkway with fresh bold colour and an abundance of plants.
“Working with the food traders and surrounding shops, together we aim to make a new destination for everyone that brings joy to an area that needs some love.”
Coun Jim O’Boyle, Cabinet Member for Jobs and Regeneration, said: “Hertford Street has undergone a bit of a transformation over the past 18 months with the food traders moving in, the new resin-bonded gravel being laid, plus the new seating and lighting as well.
“We removed the former Nationwide building to reopen the wide connection between Broadgate and Hertford street and its really made a big difference.
“We want to create spaces that local people can enjoy, creating a lighter, brighter and greener city centre that makes the best of the old and the best of the new.
“Morag’s art installation will really complement that work and I’m really looking forward to seeing it.”
