Huge public art project for Eccles as part of town’s regeneration programme

A huge, free public art exhibition is coming to Eccles this summer as part of the town’s regeneration programme.

We Live Here is an art project launching on July 21, and will see 14 works decorate Eccles Shopping Centre, the Market, Eccles Gateway and library, and along Church Street.

Themes of the people that live, study and work in Eccles will be explored by creators such as Lauren Mullarkey and Hammo, as well as group projects from Youth Service LGBTQ+ youth club, pupils from The Arbour Academy, and Salford Art Group.

Organised by Salford City Council and Eccles’ community groups, the project’s aim is to celebrate the local community and the unique character and heritage of Eccles.

Councillor Mike McCusker, Lead Member for Planning, Transport and Sustainable Development, Salford City Council, said:  “The We Live Here art trail in the retail heart of Eccles will be an exciting addition for local residents and visitors alike to explore the vibrant artworks in spaces that they may pass by each day.

“It’s fantastic to have local artists and community groups in collaboration to deliver this trail, helping to shape what will be colourful and joyful final showcase of public art open to alI… really can’t wait to explore the trail come to life!”

A design competition will also be held for Eccles’ schools, with the winner’s work being blown up on huge vinyls and displayed in windows across the town centre alongside the works of Kelly Ma, a local digital artist.

Printed trail maps will be available to pick up at locations around Eccles and an online trail map will also be available to download.

Ben Reed, Head of Creative Development at Wild in Art said: “It’s really exciting to be involved in a project that forms part of the regeneration strategy of Eccles; it has so much potential and such a rich history.

“Wild in Art can’t wait to commission artists and work with local community groups who will collectively create high quality art interventions that will inject vibrancy and colour into the town centre.

We Live Here: Eccles will be live from Friday 21 July until the end of September.