'Wildflower Haven' mural unveiled at Honeymead in Calne

A vibrant new mural celebrating the beauty of wildflowers has been unveiled at Honeymead in Calne.

The project, spearheaded by the Calne Clean Up Crew, is the latest addition to the town's growing collection of public art.

Local residents expressed a desire for a mural that would showcase the area's natural beauty. Artist Sam Elliott, known for her passion for wildflowers and their role in supporting pollinators, was commissioned to create the piece. The mural features a colourful array of wildflower species and stylized pollinators, making it a visual delight for passersby.

Cath Crofts, a founder of the Calne Clean Up Crew, commented, "We were approached by residents of Honeymead who loved the town murals and wanted one of their own! After consultations with the residents and no objections, funding was secured, and a date was set! We are so pleased to have been able to brighten up this area for the residents, thank you for asking us." 

The Honeymead Wildflower Haven mural was created with the assistance of local artists Penny Errill and Sandi Sayer, as well as volunteers Tegan Godwin-Deveney and Tim Havenith. Funding for the project was gratefully received from housing association GreenSquareAccord (GSA).

Melissa Shephard, a Housing Officer at GSA who supports their customers in Calne said “ This project originated as a request from GSA customers to brighten up their street. That has certainly been achieved.

“The mural looks fantastic, and it has been amazing to see how the community has been included in process of creating this piece of public. GSA were delighted to award £1000 from our Community Investment Fund to Calne-based artists to support this project.”

Passersby who witnessed the mural's creation were enthusiastic about the progress and design, offering positive feedback and encouragement to the artists and volunteers involved.

The mural joins other recent additions to Calne's public art scene, including two murals commemorating the 250th anniversary of Joseph Priestley's discovery of oxygen at Bowood House while living in Calne. These projects have helped to enhance the town's visual appeal and create a sense of community pride.

The public art of Calne has been uploaded on an interactive map, available from Calne Heritage and Amenities Organisation at the following website: www.calneheritageandamenities.org.uk