STUDENTS have teamed up with a local artist to transform a storage container at a Tameside beauty spot into a masterpiece.
The group from Tameside College’s Aspirations cohort worked with Mossley-based street artist Simon Mound on the eight-week project called ‘Made You Look’ at Chadwick Dam in Ashton-under-Lyne.
They explored and photographed the site, joining forces to create designs and art that resulted in the finished work, as a creative response to the local environment and inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s masterpiece ‘The Starry Knight’ and Piet Mondrian’s colour block form.
The students also took part in outdoor activities in the scenic spot that boosted their knowledge of nature and local greenspaces, as well as their health and wellbeing.
Aspirations is the college’s provision for learners with complex and moderate learning difficulties and/or disabilities, who work towards the skills needed to participate in the wider community and, where appropriate, the world of work.
The project was organised by Tameside Council’s Culture and Public Health teams, using funding from the Chadwick Dam Activation Project via the Mayor’s Challenge Fund.
Councillor Laura Boyle, who represents the Droylsden East ward, has seen the large-scale artwork for herself and was certainly impressed.
“It was a pleasure to see the fantastic artwork that Simon and the students have created, turning an old storage container into a stunning piece of art for people to enjoy, and to congratulate them on their achievements,” said Cllr Boyle, who is Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Housing, Homelessness, Planning, Transport and Connectivity.
“I’m delighted that they’ve benefitted so much from this project, getting fit and active in the fresh air and boosting their creativity, skills and confidence.
“I’d like to thank everyone involved and I’d encourage people to visit Chadwick Dam to enjoy the artwork and the beautiful scenery.”
Chadwick Dam is part of the Bee Network, a joined up cycling and walking network across Greater Manchester aimed at connecting every neighbourhood and community to encourage more active travel.