"We all know Falmouth's a world class sailing destination, but less well known is the town's unique art heritage. I am a big advocate of taking art beyond gallery walls into unusual situations as it engages people who may not have connected to the visual arts before and this is a perfect project to highlight Falmouth's art history, engage people and brighten up the shopping streets at the same time ! I would love to see wall to wall art in Falmouth, it would give us a visual and cultural advantage." John Dyer.
Falmouth’s Business Improvement District launches window display project
Walking past the vacant retail unit at 1 Market Strand in Falmouth, will prove particularly eye-catching at the moment, thanks to the installation of a Falmouth BID initiated window display. Colourful panels that celebrate Falmouth’s artistic and creative heritage have been designed by Falmouth firm Auto Graffiti, utilising works from artists such as John Dyer and abstract painter Grace Gardner.
The five-year Falmouth BID programme has a number of priority areas, as laid out in its manifesto, including physical improvements to the townscape, destination marketing, event led activity and business support. In terms of public realm improvements, the window display initiative is the third project delivered in the past two months, with the new Falmouth map and the installation of creatively designed benches both unveiled in April, with a fourth, one hundred flag and floral displays for the town centre planned for the end of May.
Richard Wilcox, Falmouth BID Manager said:
“Falmouth BID is really entering an exciting phase of project delivery, in partnership with local businesses and organisations, that are clearly aimed at improving and developing the town. Regards the vacant unit project, we’ve been working closely with Millers Estate Agents, the artist John Dyer and Falmouth Art Gallery to create some visually stunning window display panels that will brighten up any space, perfectly illustrated at 1 Market Strand. We hope that this window installation will be the first of many, as and when opportunities arise.”
Brian Stewart, Curator of Falmouth Art Gallery added:
“There is nothing more depressing than an empty shop window during tough economic times. So, it is a great idea for Falmouth BID to liven things up with imagery that celebrates Falmouth’s rich artistic heritage. Falmouth Art Gallery was delighted to be able to assist by providing photographs of the paintings for the display. “
Rob Redgrave of Miller Commercial, Chartered Surveyors commented:
“The current economic climate presents challenges when it comes to filling empty sites. However, we can overcome this with some productive partnership work and creative thinking. As a firm, we are always looking to strengthen our relationships with local retailers which we can do by working in conjunction with programmes like the Falmouth BID.”
Richard Wilcox, Falmouth BID Manager can be contacted on 01326 313553 or via richardwilcox@falmouth.co.uk
