Student completes mural in Ipswich retail hub

STUDENT AND STAFF SUCCESS

Student completes mural in Ipswich retail hub

Microshops Ipswich, the innovative retail concept for fledgling retailers, has unveiled a new mural by our 2nd year, Fine Art student Pippa Worthington who won a competition run by Microshops, to create the 3.7m x 2.4m mural.

The brief was to represent important aspects of Ipswich and Pippa’s design features recognisable local sights, including Digby the octopus, Portman Road, home of Ipswich Town FC and the University’s Question Mark sculpture. It took Pippa a week to complete and it is expected to remain in place for at least a year.

Natalie Sebastian, Head of Special Projects at Evolve Estates, which owns Microshops Ipswich, said, “We’re so pleased to have worked with the University on this scheme and are thrilled with the finished piece that now takes pride of place in Microshops.

“Microshops is all about encouraging local, independent talent so it made sense to work with students on our doorstep for this project. It has gone so well we’re planning to run further competitions with the Fine Art department.”

Pippa said, “When I was working on it, people kept coming up to me recognising the landmarks. It was a nice experience and the reception is really good.”

Dr Jane Watt, Senior Lecturer in Fine Art, added, “This is a great opportunity for our students. Professional Practice is at the heart of our course, creating opportunities for students to develop their portfolios in real‑life situations, showcasing their creative skills and placing art in the community. Pippa’s mural is vibrant and dynamic, complementing the fantastic new creative space in Ipswich town centre.”

Microshops opened in June with 17 retail pods, and are now entering phase two. The pods are suitable for retailers, artists and craftspeople and are let on a flexible, monthly contract. For more information, visit Microshops or email them.