Three city centre shutters have been reimagined through a new street art project supporting Sheffield Futures, delivered in partnership with Sheffield BID and local artist Big Mak.
The project placed young people at the centre of the creative process, beginning with an ideas workshop involving members of Sheffield Futures.
During the session, participants shared words, themes and lived experiences that they wanted to see reflected in the artwork, shaping both the tone and direction of the final designs.
Artist Big Mak translated these ideas into a cohesive set of murals painted across three shutters, creating visual narratives that reflect everyday life, resilience and moments of calm and connection within the city.
The designs respond directly to the workshop discussions, focusing on grounded, relatable scenes that balance darker urban backdrops with lighter elements that suggest hope, safety and imagination.
The shutters now provide a strong visual presence at street level while also giving visibility to youth voices in the public realm.
By involving young people early in the process and allowing their ideas to influence the final outcome, the project demonstrates how street art can be both a creative intervention and a meaningful platform for expression.
The commission forms part of Sheffield BID’s ongoing work to improve the city centre environment through inclusive, community‑focused projects, while supporting organisations like Sheffield Futures that play a vital role in helping young people build confidence, skills and aspirations.
Sheffield Futures works with young people across the city, particularly those facing barriers to education, training and employment.
This project reflects a shared commitment to ensuring that improvements to the city centre reflect the diversity and experiences of the people who live, study and work there.
