There was a time a few years back when this superb hoarding, the People’s Republic of Stokes Croft outdoor gallery, would be refreshed on a regular basis with all manner of collaborations, these days it tends to be used more for social commentary and messaging, which is not entirely surprising, and welcome. On the downside, it doesn’t get painted with the same frequency, as the messages have longevity. This is a superb, and rather eclectic collaboration from Aimee’s Esme Lower, Jody and Conrico in support of Bristol’s homeless.
The collaboration begins on the left with a colourful piece by Aimes. The creative piece hints at homes with the brick wall, and also recognises one of the backers of the campaign, the Big Issue, an outstanding set up that has been supporting homeless people for years through a model of engagement in the process of creating and selling print/digital newspapers.
The next piece is by Melo who has been on fire recently. The comforting piece is a combination of an illustrative cartoon style that verges on the abstract in places. Two characters, one of them drinking a hot drink and some beautiful flowers, gives us a scene full of hope and opportunity.
The portrait piece by Jody, is, I believe a copy of the front cover of the Big Issue, featuring DJ James Hype, who was holding a fundraising event at the Beacon to support homelessness. Jody, as ever has smashed it with the greyscale piece.
Finally, Conrico has painted some low-cost container houses amidst a floral display, and the words ‘building homes from house’ making the connection between the fundraiser and the outcomes. All in all these four artists have combined to support a powerful and valuable message to the people of Bristol.
Natural adventures 