STUDENTS have transformed a derelict Southampton eyesore into a vibrant new landmark paying tribute to the region’s history.
Ocean liners, Vikings and Spitfire planes all feature in the striking street art, which is the city’s newest tourist attraction.
Students from Southampton Solent University have painted over run-down hoardings at the former Jongleurs comedy club in Below Bar, next to the Bargate.
The scheme was launched in partnership with Southampton City Council, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, the City College and Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.
It follows chamber board member Jan Ward seeking permission from the property’s administrators and the council after being appalled at the boarded up property.
The university’s School of Art lecturers Jonny Hannah and Louise Weir launched the Welcome to Sotonia project, challenging first-year illustration students – who are mainly new to the area – to explore the city’s history.
The resulting images, rising to more than 6ft high, have been placed into a design echoing the exterior of the Tudor House.
Mr Hannah said: “The project encourages the students to locate themselves and see what they make of the area. Even if they are from Southampton it encourages them to look at the city with fresh eyes.
“For many it will be their first commission, they are seeing their work in public, and the images are 6ft high.”
Ms Ward said: “Everyone’s hard work and creativity has really paid off.
“The site looks so much more inviting. I love the way in which the illustrations document the landmarks, the events and the people that put Southampton on the map.”
Student Adam Allori, 19, from Southampton, has focused on the city’s history from the Vikings to the Second World War.
He said: “I found them interesting to draw as a representation of Southampton as it’s hard to get a sense of the historical events of the city just from walking around.
“So many buildings were levelled during the war and it could be quite easy to forget just how old and important Southampton has been in English history.”
Amy Woodham, also 19, from Chichester, has submitted several images based on the city’s parks.
She said: “I really enjoy the contrast of hard city walls and the big areas of plants and greenery.”
City College provided the supplies and labour to prepare the panels, which were printed and installed by the Ben Voller G4 Fund.
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