The Wallflower Project has been launched in the lead up to Mayflower400. The Project will engage local communities in the design and production of outdoor public murals across the city centre. Overseen by the University of Plymouth’s public art specialist Dr Jody Patterson in collaboration with a collective of local artists under the guidance of Fine Art graduate Llyr Davies, the murals will explore aspects of the city’s history with the goal of bringing art to new audiences and enlivening our shared urban spaces.
The first mural executed by The Wallflower Project, The Seafarer – The Eager of Spirit, the Heart to Travel, was unveiled in the courtyard of the Factory Cooperage, Royal William Yard in September 2017. The design engages the theme of transatlantic journeys during the 400-year period since the sailing of the Mayflower. The Project aims to foster interest in local heritage; contribute to civic pride; provide opportunities for early career artists to deploy their knowledge and skills, and further Plymouth’s burgeoning identity as a city of culture.