A new piece of community-inspired artwork has been unveiled at Rugby Station to help celebrate the town’s history, heritage and attractions.
Funded by Avanti West Coast’s Project Fund, the Heart of England Community Rail Partnership (CRP) worked with artist Stacey Barnfield from Draw My City to develop the project.
The colours were chosen from the ideas that arose from a public consultation, the aim of which was to get respondents to celebrate their hometown. At its heart were several school and community workshops delivered by Ruby Road, a Warwickshire based storytelling collective, and its creative producer Jo Chalkblack.
Working with the project partners, Stacey brought to life the many ideas, creating three colour palettes with the themes History and Heritage, Creativity and Culture, and Industry and Innovation. The colours chosen are a mix of direct references to suggestions from the public as well as more thought-provoking choices designed to encourage conversation around the palette.
Click here for a short guide containing the inspiration behind each colour.
To help launch the Rugby Colour Palette, Mayor of Rugby Councillor Maggie O’Rourke was joined by school children from Riverside Academy and Rugby Free Primary at the station, who enjoyed an immersive art workshop led by the Heart of England CRP.
Julia Singleton-Tasker, lead officer at Heart of England CRP, said: “It was great to see the transformation that the colour palette has brought to the subway and to see the reactions on everyone’s faces when they saw it for the first time. The passion for Rugby has shone through since day one, and I’d like to thank all those who have played their part in bringing the Rugby Colour Palette to life.”
Sarah Sheldon, Avanti West Coast station manager for Rugby, said: “Rugby is one of our key stations on the West Coast Main Line. But outside of those who live here, very few are aware of its wonderful character and history. We hope the new colour palette will help share the town’s story and encourage more people to visit.”
Artist Stacey Barnfield said: “I’ve learnt so much about Rugby, a town steeped in history and full of character. The colours hopefully tell just some of the story and I’d encourage anyone who has yet to visit, to consider jumping on the train and enjoying some time here.”
Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from the Heart of England CRP via their website.
