A celebratory mural has been commissioned by TransPennine Express to commemorate Hull Paragon Interchange's 175th anniversary and is titled ‘The Creation of Hull'.
The vibrant mural will be revealed to commuters over the upcoming weeks and has been created by Hull-based artist Andy Pea and students of Ron Dearing University Technical College.
Andy has over 25 years of experience working internationally as an artist and mural artist as well as working on a project previously with TransPennine Express.
The colourful mural will mark a visual chronicle of the history of Hull with inspiration and ideas included from the Interchanges users alongside the general public.
The artwork will see the Ferensway entrance at the station completely transformed, creating a vivid view of the city's vibrant history across its four walls and ceiling. The memorial boards which are sited in the entrance will remain in place and have been incorporated with care into the mural's design.
Passengers using Hull Paragon will see the mural come together over a number of weeks and will be revealed day by day in order to tell Hull's story over five chapters over the four walls and ceiling, as follows:
- The east wall will feature a tribute to Kingston-Upon-Hull's historic connection to the sea and its rich maritime heritage.
- The south wall will see the Humber Bridge against a backdrop of the estuary, connecting themes of trade and nature.
- The west wall will capture the vibrant life of Paragon station touching upon it as a gateway and marking human experience of journeys travelled.
- The north wall represents Hull's legacy of innovation, celebrating the city's trailblazers who have had an impact on the world.
- The ceiling will feature an homage to Michelangelo's iconic masterpiece ‘The Creation of Adam' which has inspired a creative focus for the project
The initial installation has seen work taking place on the south wall with the painting of bird life, including a heron and kingfisher. The project will take a number of weeks to create, with completion expected this October.
Artist, Andy Pea, said:
“I'm thrilled to be working with TPE on this unique project and am very excited to begin the painting process.”
“The design of this public art piece was born from a process of consultation and collaboration. I have engaged with students from Ron Dearing UTC and the public to create what I hope will be a fitting homage to the rich history of Hull.”
“The ‘Creation of Hull' artwork aims to enrich the urban landscape, proving that when a community comes together to create, the city flourishes as a canvas for collective expression.”
“The collaboration nurtured a rich tapestry of ideas, intertwining historical narratives, cultural symbols, and aspirations for the future.”
“The artwork will capture the essence of the city's thriving fishing and historical whaling industries, the iconic Humber Bridge and the delicate balance between human progress and the preservation of the Humber's ecological wonders.”
“Not to mention celebrating the city's trailblazers, who have left an indelible mark on the world.”
Ben Courtney, Hull Paragon Station Manager for TPE said:
“Hull is my home and I was already familiar with Andy's work across the city and was delighted when he agreed to take this project on.”
“Andy's vision and passion to project the history and vision of Hull on the canvas we provided has gone well beyond our expectations. The finished artwork will leave a lasting impression on visitors and enhance the journeys of regular Interchange users.”
“This is a very exciting time for Hull Paragon Interchange, and I look forward to being able to share details of further enhancements soon.”
Councillor Mark Ieronimo, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Transportation, Highways and Roads at Hull City Council, said:
“Paragon Interchange has served, and continues to serve, the transport needs of millions of rail and bus passengers every single year.”
“The mural, commissioned by TPE, to commemorate the interchange's historic anniversary will not only act as a symbol of civic pride for those who live and work in the city, it will also provide a powerful first and last impression for the many visitors Hull receives annually, many of whom will make their journeys from this location.”
“The council looks forward to seeing Andy's work as it develops over the coming weeks and how, when complete, it will celebrate the rich culture, history and heritage of Hull.”
