It’s the artwork that has captivated shoppers and visitors to Chesterfield town centre for weeks.
World-renowned street artist Peachzz has worked throughout stormy weather and cold, frosty days to create the stunning mural on the side of The Pavements Shopping Centre.
As Reflections went to press, Peachzz was putting the finishing touches to the mural which celebrates Chesterfield’s markets and heritage.
She says: “Lots of people have been very interested in watching the process of the mural being painted with many stopping by to watch – even in the winter weather!”
Peachzz, from Sheffield, created the design after a series of consultations during the summer.
She explains: “The various elements in the mural relate to items that can found on Chesterfield’s diverse range of markets including the sunflowers, artisan jam, records and various collectibles.
“Many items have a direct link to the heritage of Chesterfield and the markets, for example, a pomegranate, a horse brass depicting cattle (linking to the cattle market) and the market horse. The hands link to the idea of the trade and exchange happening at the market.
“Consultation has informed the design and development of the mural, including a drop-in event at The Pavements, conversations with market traders and sessions with various school and community groups.”
Peachzz discovered spray painting in the forgotten industrial sites of the UK and Europe, channelling her creativity into breathing life into walls.
Her work often explores and celebrates themes of nature, life and community, set against the stark concrete of urban spaces. With each mural she aims to evoke an emotional response and ensure her work feels rooted in its surroundings.
With a storytelling approach, she creates art that resonates with both the local communities and visitors. Her style is expressive, with hints of realism, while experimenting with positive themes and a bold colour palette.
Peachzz has travelled with her work all over Europe and has painted as far away as the USA, Colombia, Mexico and the Middle East.
She was commissioned by Chesterfield Borough Council to create the mural as part of the Animate Chesterfield programme, which will create new artworks and activities throughout regeneration projects happening in both Chesterfield and Staveley.
Animate Chesterfield is being delivered by Beam, a leading cultural development organisation in collaboration with Chesterfield Borough Council. Further plans include the creation of a Heritage Arts Trail, a town centre projection mapping project, an outdoor exhibition and a new sculpture for Staveley town centre.
• All pictures by Fiona Stubbs