Acomb Front Street has undergone a vibrant transformation with the unveiling of a stunning new mural and refurbished benches, bringing colour, creativity, and a deep sense of community spirit to the heart of this historic York suburb. Spearheaded by Art of Protest (AOP) and funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this public art project is more than just a visual enhancement—it’s a reflection of Acomb’s rich heritage and its dynamic, diverse community.
The newly completed mural, titled Return of the Oaks, located at the welcome gateway at the bottom of Cross Street, captures the essence of Acomb—its past, present, and future. With a design inspired by community input, the artwork draws upon Acomb’s historical roots as an ancient oak forest, incorporating themes of nature, wildlife, and heritage. The vibrant colours and geometric patterns ensure the mural is not only visually striking but also inclusive, considering accessibility needs by avoiding colour contrasts that could be disorienting for visually impaired residents.
One local shopkeeper shared their excitement: “I feel so inspired by the improvements made to Front Street, especially the artwork on the wall and benches and planting. For me, it’s a reflection of the earthy, vibrant, and diverse community we have here. I really do feel that art can help people in a way that filling potholes can’t.”
What sets this project apart is its deep-rooted engagement with the people of Acomb. AOP’s outreach efforts included 17 community workshops, attended by over 300 residents, where participants of all ages—ranging from toddlers to those in their 90s—shared their thoughts, memories, and aspirations for Acomb. Local schools, businesses, and history groups all played a role in shaping the designs, ensuring the final artwork resonates with the community it represents.
From schoolchildren learning spray-painting techniques at York High School to residents reminiscing about Acomb’s past at Acomb Explore Library, the workshops were a space for shared learning, creativity, and storytelling. One young participant expressed their enthusiasm, saying: “This was the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. I didn’t think I could be good at anything, but now I know I can.”
In addition to the mural, eight wooden benches along Front Street have been transformed into functional works of art. Inspired by local nature, each bench now features unique designs, reflecting different trees or leaves, with ideas gathered from residents. This not only enhances the street’s aesthetic appeal but also creates a sense of place—people can now say, “Meet me at the oak bench” or “Let’s sit at the beech bench.”
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The mural and bench project is about more than just beautification—it’s about fostering community pride, supporting local talent, and strengthening Acomb’s identity. As part of AOP’s Street Art Academy, local artists were given the opportunity to develop their skills and even shadow the mural’s creation. This investment in artistic talent ensures that Acomb’s cultural and creative energy will continue to grow.
Acomb’s transformation has not gone unnoticed. At the mural’s official unveiling, the Lord Mayor of York, Cllr Margaret Wells, remarked: “It speaks volumes about community action and our interaction with nature and the power and importance of these issues to our lives and our wellbeing. They have really listened to what the community wanted, and that’s so important.”
Local councillor Katie Lomas added: “I’m really proud of this place, and I’m just glad that other people are seeing that as well now.”
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The success of this project has sparked enthusiasm for even more community-driven art initiatives. Residents have already voiced their desire for additional murals, more public art spaces, and even a designated area where young people can legally practice and showcase their street art skills.
Acomb’s mural isn’t just a painting on a wall—it’s a statement of unity, creativity, and heritage. It’s a reminder of the stories, people, and natural beauty that make this community special. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a visitor to Front Street, take a moment to sit on one of the newly refurbished benches, soak in the mural’s colours, and appreciate the vibrant heart of Acomb.
