A ‘bold and fun’ mural inspired by shapes and colours found in molecular biology has been commissioned in Sheffield by the online educational publisher Twinkl.
The company is working with the local artist Florence Blanchard to create a mural along their privately owned road, Twinkl Way, which is just off Ecclesall Road.
Florence was chosen by Twinkl colleagues out of a short-list of talented local artists. The team were inspired by her previous work as a scientist and how she uses her education and training in biology to influence her work.
Florence, who will be working on the artwork in the following month, said:
“It is an honour to be invited to do the mural. The wall on Twinkl Way is an ideal canvas as its length means there is plenty of space to develop the piece and it’s in great condition. I’m excited to get started.”
Artworks, a not-for-profit creative arts organisation, have done the base coat in preparation for the mural. The organisation helps adults with learning disabilities to work in the arts sector and develop life skills through creative projects.
Kayleigh Cruickshank, Founder of Artworks, said: “We’re really happy to be part of this project, which will bring another beautiful and inspiring piece of street art to the city.
“Collaborating with local artists and businesses, such as Florence and Twinkl, has always helped give our artists a chance to develop new skills and further their love and knowledge of art.”
Dom, an Artist at Artworks, said: “I enjoy having different experiences and trying different things, like this project with Florence. It’s nice for artists from Artworks to be able to help out.”
Twinkl is using the mural as an opportunity to link its headquarters at Wards Exchange on Ecclesall Road with its new office at Hallamshire Business Park on Napier Street. The wall chosen to showcase the mural runs alongside the new building and is around 70metres long and 3 metres high.
Jonathan Seaton, Co-founder and CEO of Twinkl, said: “There is so much amazing work happening in the arts across Sheffield and we are delighted to be working with Florence and ArtWorks.
“Florence’s work is inspired by her time studying and working in science and this love of learning and blend of subjects really reflects Twinkl’s work in education.”
