Renaissance Paint Jam celebrates Bristol’s 650th anniversary
Shop windows are being transformed by Renaissance inspired street art
Bristol’s 650th anniversary is being celebrated by a Renaissance Paint Jam, a new street art collaboration between the Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID) and the organisers of Upfest.
Between 20 and 23 July, the windows of unused retail units in Park Street, Queen’s Road and the Triangle will be transformed by a team of 10 street artists.
The outdoor exhibition will feature Renaissance inspired paintings, created on a large scale which blends traditional methods with contemporary street art.
Vicky Lee, Head of Bristol City Centre BID said: “While the retail units on these streets are under offer, we have a unique opportunity to create a large impact for visitors to this part of the city.
"This is a significant year for the city as we celebrate 650 years of independence and there’s nothing more synonymous with modern day Bristol than street art.”
As well as coming to see the finished paintings, members of public can observe the artists at work, as they complete their work using a combination of traditional and modern techniques.
“It will be great to see people turn out to support the artists as they create their pieces and the traders across the area as we head into the summer season.” says Ms Lee.
Whilst most of installations will be temporary, street artist Inkie will spray paint a permanent piece at the Radisson Blu hotel in Broad Quay.
In recognition of the 650 years since King Edward III granted Bristol county status, Inkie’s work will comprise of 650 words, and references to Bristol’s unique history and modern identity.
As well as Inkie, other artists involved in the Renaissance Jam include oil painter Will Cross, copywriter TOZER, artist Georgie Webster, fine art inspired Andrew Burns Colwill, multi-medium creator Rose Popay, mural artist Martin D’Arcy and street art expressionist Cheba.