A prominent vacant building on Sheffield's George Street has been given a colourful new look after Zoe Genders, a Sheffield-based artist, worked with Sheffield BID to create a series of bespoke art panels for the former Curzon Cinema building.
The artwork has been installed on temporary security panels covering the windows of the Grade II listed building following the cinema's closure.
Designed specifically for the site, the artwork celebrates Sheffield's heritage, landscape, culture and creativity through a collection of locally inspired themes. The designs incorporate recognisable references to Sheffield, including a steel furnace, climbing, the Botanical Gardens, the Peak District, a wheat sheaf, jewellery-making traditions and the city's theatres and cultural venues.
The project forms part of Sheffield BID's ongoing commitment to George Street and the surrounding area.
Following the opening of The Mulberry Club and with discussions continuing around the future of other prominent buildings on the street, the artwork helps reinforce a sense of place and confidence, ensuring that one of Sheffield city centre's most distinctive historic streets continues to make a positive impression on those who live, work and spend time there.
George Street is home to some of Sheffield city centre's most distinctive historic buildings and independent businesses. The artwork celebrates the street's character while contributing positively to the area during a period of transition.
Developed with Listed Building Consent, the artwork provides a temporary and fully reversible enhancement to the former cinema frontage, contributing positively to the character of George Street while future plans for the building emerge.
Diane Jarvis, Chief Executive of Sheffield BID, said:
"Vacant buildings can quickly influence how people perceive a street. Rather than leaving blank security panels, we wanted to create something that contributes positively to the area and reflects the character of Sheffield.
"Zoe's artwork transforms a practical security measure into a celebration of the city. It tells a story about Sheffield's heritage, creativity and identity while helping to maintain a welcoming environment during a period of change.
"George Street has enormous potential and is already seeing significant investment. Projects like this demonstrate that even relatively small interventions can help build confidence, support local artists and contribute to a city centre that feels cared for and vibrant."
