TWO community projects funded by Pride of Place grants have resulted in inspiring new artworks in the area.
Artist Jayde Marie Bell has painted a vibrant mural at Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church celebrating the Dearne’s nature and heritage.
It features the word "hope" and a line of song lyrics reading “Come, set our hearts ablaze with hope, Like wildfire in our very souls.”
The Pride of Place grant also funded creative sessions run by Dearne Churches Together for residents to decorate ceramic coasters with pictures of their favourite things. These have been arranged on the front wall of the Goldthorpe church to spell out the word “hope”.
This is one of more than 50 projects across Barnsley supported by the council’s Pride of Place scheme, which has enabled community groups to enhance their environment or facilities.
Church pastor Julie Turner said: “Jayde has been working with the Dearne Community Arts’ Festival in Goldthorpe on painting shop shutters, so there is a real sense of continuity in the work she has been doing. We love the painting – it reminds us of the area’s heritage, but also points forward to the hope that there is renewal to be found in nature, whilst the song lyrics also capture an inspiring message of hope.”
“What is particularly special about the coaster board is that people have been free to paint whatever they want. It’s been lovely to see the things that inspire them and bring them pleasure – from dolphins to flowers to cups of tea and coffee.
“Community art is a way of shaping how we feel about our environment and about sending positive messages.
“We hope these two projects reflect that we love where we live and can have hope in a world which can often seem very dark and difficult.”
Cabinet Spokesperson for Public Health and Communities, Councillor Wendy Cain, said: “Our Pride of Place scheme has supported a huge range of inspiring projects with community spirit at their heart.
“It’s wonderful to see the results of the artwork projects at Goldthorpe Pentecostal Community Church. They spread a message of hope and showcase the impressive talent and creativity of people in the Dearne."
