A FORMER pub that was boarded up at the end of last year has been given a fresh new look by a local arts organisation.
GoCreate has joined forces with Taunton Town Council to paint a River Tone mural on the boards at the former Henrys pub on the town's High Street.
The pub was forced to close in 2019 after 33 years in business.
In November, the town council arranged for the “eyesore” building to be boarded up after reports of anti-social behaviour – but said work would be carried out to make it look more attractive.
That work has now been completed by artists Jenny Keogh and Adam Grose with funding from the council's Town Improvements Fund.
The river landscape was designed by Jenny in the style of celebrated female artist Clarice Cliff, who was famous for her ceramic designs.
Jenny said: “It has been lovely to hear people’s positive reactions to the mural as well as sharing stories and fondness of the former establishment while we painted the mural.
“The place clearly holds a lot of special memories for people.”
A Taunton Town Council spokesperson said: “Delighted to be working with GoCreate who have produced this piece of artwork inspired by Clarice Cliff on the former Henrys unit.
“Whilst brightening the High Street, it also showcases our countryside and the River Tone.”
Reacting to the mural, one Taunton local praised its “wonderful concept and design”.
Another said: “Let’s see more of this on our high streets, great work.”
We received reports of anti-social behaviour around the former Henry's unit and you told us that you thought it was an eyesore. Using our Town Improvements Fund we arranged to have it boarded up, and @GoCreate will shortly be adding artwork to make it look more attractive. pic.twitter.com/9sLhiP3hWa
— Taunton Town Council (@Taunton_TC) November 23, 2023
GoCreate is a community interest company (CIC) that was set up in 2014 by a group of creative practitioners living or working in Taunton.
It aims to ‘Seek, Encourage & Promote Creativity’.
As well as creating public artwork like the Rainbow Pathway, GoCreate also curates festivals, exhibitions, Taunton's Got Talent and art trails.
The organisation also holds regular creative workshops from its base at The Arts Hub at Flook House (Belvedere Road).
Learn more by visiting gocreate.org.uk.
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