Bedminster 20mph Art Commission

The community arts grant given to the Greater Bedminster Neighbourhood Partnership provided the opportunity to install a permanent artwork at a key site in Bristol. The aim of the project was to slow vehicle speed at a ‘hot spot’, show community support for 20mph and raise the visibility of any community or school buildings, increasing legibility of walking or cycling routes and visually enhance the appearance of the neighbourhood.

The artwork aimed to slow drivers’ speed by raising awareness of the surrounding area, to show and gain community support for 20mph and strengthen Bedminster’s identity as a major walking and cycling route that connects the centre and the south of the city.  

I was project manager for this, after interviewing a number of artists myself and the Board selected Zoe Power and Dave Bain. I organised ways for the community to engage in helping design the murals alongside the artists. The pieces of art were designed through engagement with the local community, this included organising sessions with Playing Out, a stall at BS3 Arts Trail and events at Upfest. The aim was to incorporate the communities ideas and opinions. The chosen artwork aimed to enhance a positive local identity through high quality and inspiring art.

Further details of the ‘Bristol Better’s at 20mph’ project can be found at www.bristol20mph.co.uk