Schoolchildren Co-Author Murals at Belfast's Grand Central Station
Translink unveiled murals at Grand Central Station in Belfast. Twenty street artists from the city created the works over two days.
Schoolchildren from seven Belfast schools served as co-authors of the designs. The schools included St Joseph’s PS, Blythefield PS, Fane Street PS, Donegall Road PS, St Mary’s PS, Royal Belfast Academical Institution and St Louise’s College.
Artists visited the schools to collect ideas from pupils. Each school received its own artwork from the project.
Grand Central Station opened in 2024. It receives more than 20 million visitors each year.
Programme manager Louise Sterrit stated that pupils acted as co-creators. Their drawings and words shaped the murals that welcome visitors to Belfast.
Daisychain, a community arts organisation, partnered with Translink. It ran workshops in the schools and led pupils on street art tours.
Daisychain co-director Adam Turkington said the project relied on collaboration. Pupils helped determine the city's appearance and welcome.
Artist Nuala Convery produced a mural of a girl with starling wings. It drew from school prompts including nurture, inspire, achieve, rising flight and transformation. The design referenced a starling murmuration over Albert Bridge.
Artist Kerrie Hanna collaborated on a mural with Rhea from Lost Lines and Imogen Donegan. It depicted a journey through nature with small characters heading to the station. The work reflected pupils' focus on geography and eco initiatives.