Public painting day planned as new artwork comes to Goldthorpe public square

Work is about to begin on creating two vibrant new murals at the Horse and Groom Square in Goldthorpe – and you can play your part in bringing them to life.

Artists Tom Jackson and Craig Evans – who work together as STATIC – drew up the design for the public square following widespread consultation with people of all ages in the Dearne.

The murals will pay tribute to the area’s proud heritage while also looking to a bright future aligned with the ambitions of the Towns Fund programme, which is revitalising Goldthorpe, Bolton upon Dearne and Thurnscoe.

There will be a large mural on the exterior wall of Goldthorpe Library and a smaller, companion piece on the wall at the rear of the square.

Members of the Dearne community are being encouraged to play their part in creating the library mural at a special public painting day from 12pm to 4pm on Saturday, 26 April.

It's free to take part but places are limited - you can book your spot here.

The vision for the library wall is titled The Stories. It features wildlife native to the Dearne Valley, references to the area’s heritage and stencil images designed during workshops at local schools.

The rear wall of the square will be partly covered by artwork forming the words “Learn from the past; look to the future”. Some of the original brickwork will be left unpainted.

We’re able to share images of sections of the designs – but you’ll have to wait until they are complete to see the whole picture.

During their consultation period, Tom and Craig worked closely with community groups and schools to shape the design and also held a special “Chat and a Brew” drop-in session at The Snap Tin café in Goldthorpe.

The artists led a well-attended painting workshop at Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church, where people could get creative and share their ideas.

Cllr Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “This artwork, designed by STATIC with input from our residents, will not only add fresh colour to the Horse and Groom Square but also serve as a symbol of our collective identity and pride.

“We look forward to seeing everyone at the public painting session on 26 April, as we come together to make this vibrant vision a reality.”

Artist Craig Evans said: “We are really looking forward to getting started on the murals.

“The designs have direct references from the engagement sessions we held and we’re hoping that we’ll have the opportunity to find out more about Goldthorpe and the Dearne during the time we’re on site.

“We’ve had a really positive response to the project so far and we look forward to being part of the transformation of this space and helping to make it a place where people come and stories are told for years to come.”

Matthew Stephens, chair of Goldthorpe Town Board, said: “I am so proud we have had so much input from local residents.

“The mural design is vibrant and energetic and sets the tone for our wider vision for Goldthorpe, building on the work already undertaken by the Goldthorpe Town Board.

“I’m sure this great new artwork will stand the test of time as a focal point for the fantastic new Horse and Groom Square.”

This is one of two ongoing major art projects for Goldthorpe and the Dearne, both of which are being delivered with arts organisation Beam.

Sculptor Dan Jones is drawing up designs for a landmark piece at the new roundabout at the western gateway to Goldthorpe.

Frances Smith, principal consultant at Beam, said: “We’re delighted to see the artwork designs created by STATIC, in collaboration with the local community, brought to life as these eye-catching new mural artworks.

“They will add a fresh layer of creativity and visual interest to Horse and Groom Square, reflecting the area’s rich history and exciting future.”

The two art commissions are among a package of Towns Fund projects to enhance public spaces, support local businesses, and foster a strong sense of community.

Find out more at barnsley.gov.uk/GoldthorpeArt.

Captions: Photos show segments of the artwork design for the mural on the exterior wall of Goldthorpe Library and artists Tom Jackson and Craig Evans in Goldthorpe's Horse and Groom Square.