Residents and visitors to Southam can see the newly unveiled mural in Wood Street car park, the third in the series from the Warwickshire County Council Blank Canvas project
The third mural was created by Stratford-based artist Ali Glover. Ali worked with local residents who met at Galanos House to create a design that captured Southam past, present, and future.
The mural reflects many aspects of Southam’s long history, a testament to the detailed research Ali undertook before creating the design. The friendly bear cub, splashing in the Holy Well, reflects the community spirit of the town and its strong roots, the celebratory backdrop references the annual fireworks display and the Big Fire of 1741 and the silhouettes of Southam landmarks rise to emphasise Southam’s resilience, its capacity for renewal, and its spirit of celebration.
High above, a WWII plane calls back to Southam’s role as an RAF training ground, while below, figures of residents run across the Bridge, demonstrating the thread of family and community which runs through the town. The deliberately layered piece blends ancient history with modern community life, reflecting Southam’s inclusive, vibrant identity.
Ali Glover, Director for both Make Murals and Workshops CIC, said:
"I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the rich heritage of Southam during the workshop at Galanos House. Throughout the installation, so many residents stopped to chat and share personal memories inspired by the mural's elements. It was incredibly rewarding to see people immediately recognise the landmarks and stories that mean the most to them. Bringing this 'Southam Adventure' to life has been a truly special experience."
Blank Canvas is a community art project, funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund via Warwickshire County Council. Ten murals will be installed in locations around the county, each reflecting the place they are in, and containing a Warwickshire Bear. Each piece is designed by a local artist working with a local community group, so that voices of the community are captured in the process.