First of 10 South Shore murals unveiled as major Blackpool public art project

A major new mural titled “Within Ya Grasp” has been unveiled in South Shore, marking the launch of The Big HeArt Project Blackpool, a public art programme led by The Butterfly Effected CIC.

The South Shore mural acts as the pilot artwork for a wider vision to create more than ten large-scale murals across Blackpool, each inspired by local stories, community voices and the unique character of different neighbourhoods throughout the town.

Funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England with additional support from Blackpool Council’s Pride of Place initiative and local businesses - the project aims to create more than ten murals across the town inspired by community voices and local heritage.

Created by artists Hayley Garner (AYLO) and Christian Fenn (SECA), the South Shore artwork features a giant seaside claw machine filled with symbols of the area’s culture, including Blackpool Rock, trams, football and amusement traditions.

Hayley Garner (AYLO) said: "One thing that kept coming up during conversations with local people was the importance of opportunity, connection and having things to look forward to. South Shore has always been a place where people came looking for enjoyment, excitement and new experiences. We wanted to create something that celebrated that history while also speaking to the challenges people face today.

“The claw machine became a powerful metaphor. Life can be unpredictable and things don't always go to plan, but there are still opportunities, support and moments of joy within our grasp.”

Christian Fenn (SECA), said: "A huge part of this project was listening to the community. The workshops and conversations with residents and school children really shaped the direction of the artwork. We wanted the mural to feel accessible and recognisable, filled with things that people associate with South Shore and their own experiences growing up or spending time here.

“Being from Blackpool, creating work that reflects the identity of the town is always important to me. South Shore has a unique character built around entertainment, community and resilience. Hopefully the mural celebrates all of those things while creating something people feel proud to have in the area.”

Developed through workshops with residents, schoolchildren and community groups, the mural explores themes of opportunity, resilience and wellbeing with its central claw symbolising hope and progress rather than chance.