What is Shutter Up and Shine Mablethorpe?
In 2024, the Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Partnership’s PLACETALK community listening project reveals themes of what matters to people living in the Mablethorpe area. Two of the top topics were to brighten up the high street all year round and more activities for young people – and so a Mablethorpe community street art initiative (Shutter Up and Shine Mablethorpe) was born.
Lincolnshire Community and Voluntary Partnership set up and ran a community-based street shutter art project in Mablethorpe, which involved 8 young people working with Image Skool (you can follow this link to the ImageSkool website), a renowned street art specialist and 2 local businesses; Mablethorpe Ice Cream Company and The Beck Restaurant.
The Shutter Up and Shine Mablethorpe project aimed to brighten up the town while providing young people with an opportunity to learn new skills and express their creativity.
Over a six-week period from September 2024 to October 2024, the young participants collaborated with Image Skool and the businesses to design and paint 4 shutters on the High Street and Quebec Road.
Drawing inspiration from Mablethorpe, the students developed unique designs that reflected their personal perspectives and local pride.
Despite facing initial challenges, such as the withdrawal of a participating business, the project quickly adapted thanks to the strong support of local residents and businesses.
Image Skool expertly guided the shutter painting workshops, encouraging and inspiring the young people to embrace their creativity.
The project attracted significant community support and positive engagement.
One local business proudly shared social media posts showcasing the progress and final results which received around 2,000 of likes, positive comments, and shares.
Passersby expressed enthusiasm for the vibrant artwork and the involvement of young people in the community.
The Shutter Up and Shine Mablethorpe Project was embraced by the residents and businesses of Mablethorpe and was a huge success within the community for the following reasons.
Positive community response: The project received overwhelmingly positive feedback from residents, visitors, and businesses.
Increased local pride: The artwork, including the Mablethorpe Mermaid and iconic landmarks in Mablethorpe helped to create a sense of pride and ownership among community members.
Youth development: The young participants gained valuable skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging.
Economic impact: The project contributed to local businesses by attracting visitors and creating a more vibrant atmosphere.
Below are some testimonials, not only from the youn people involved in the project, but from local members of the community and project partners.
Our YouTube video below shows you how the Shutter Up and Shine Mablethorpe project evolved from the initial design sketches through to the completed shutters.
This case study highlights the positive impact of community-based street art projects in fostering local pride, developing youth skills, and revitalising public spaces. The positive impact of the project has inspired the young people involved to continue their artistic endeavours and even consider mentoring younger generations in future initiatives.
More businesses have expressed interest in having their shutters painted. Street art can have a positive impact on local economies by attracting visitors and supporting businesses.
Sofie from Mablethorpe Ice Cream Company felt so inspired by the project, she has decided to set up a community art studio above her new gift shop opening in February. As well as offering art for children and adults she wants to bring the opportunity for young people to continue to develop their spray painting skills.
As summer season comes to an end, the shutters will proudly brighten up two of the main streets in Mablethorpe.