New artwork celebrating the history and heritage of Lincoln has gone on display at the city’s station.
The six pieces were designed by local artist Mel Langton with pupils from Hospital School, the National Citizen Service, and Lincoln City Foundation.
The striking images include Lincoln Castle, the city’s cathedral, Newport Arch, and Lincoln City Football Club. One piece depicts the railway network, and another reflects the history of Lincoln as the birthplace of the tank.
The artwork, titled ‘Romans to Railways’ was devised over several months in a bid to brighten up a section of the station’s platform five, and to give passengers and visitors an insight into Lincoln’s culture and history.
The artwork was sponsored by East Midlands Railway (EMR), Community Rail Network, and North Notts & Lincs Community Rail Partnership, alongside Lincoln City Foundation and The Rotary Club of Lincoln Colonia.
Mel Langton said she was delighted to have been chosen to create the artwork and work alongside the local young people.
She said: “It is great to be able to help bring some fun and colourful imagery to Lincoln Railway Station. We wanted to produce some vibrant designs that would brighten the station and welcome visitors into Lincoln, whilst sharing a little of our counties’ history and great places to visit.
“Along with designing my own pieces for the project, it was a pleasure working with the schools involved and the LCFC National Citizen Service to create the further three diverse designs that are now on display. I really hope that the artwork will be enjoyed for many years to come.“
Elaine Porter, art teacher at Lincoln Christ Hospital School, said: “Working with EMR and Mel has had a significant impact on the Year 11 Creative Arts Enrichment Group. It provided them with the opportunity to develop their skills in digital art, taking their artwork out of the classroom and into the community.”
Tamsin, a year 11 pupil at the school, said: “Taking part in this community project was a wonderful experience, seeing it all come together was a dream.”
Her classmate Caitlin added: “I’ve enjoyed every moment of this amazing project. I am grateful that I was given the chance to work alongside a real artist, to create something that all of us, as a community, can enjoy for years to come.”
Donna Adams, community engagement manager at EMR, said: “Everyone involved in this project should feel very proud and we would like to thank all the volunteers for their help and time. The artwork is a lovely addition to the station, it not only brightens up the area, but also manages to highlight the rich history, heritage and wonderful landmarks that the city has to offer.”
The Rotary Club of Lincoln Colonia adopted Lincoln Station five years ago and has been busy transforming the disused platform, clearing and tidying the area.
Rotarian Peter Harrold said: “We spoke with the station manager and formed an adoption group to see what could be done. The platform has been transformed and the artwork is the icing on the cake.
“The art features Lincoln’s Roman and industrial past, including references to the first tank, which was built here in Lincoln, and the importance of railways to the city. Lincoln’s famous football club, the Imps, is not forgotten either.”
Find out more about the work of North Notts & Lincs Community Rail Partnership here.
