Mural art project uniting community in Ashbourne

A COLOURFUL new community mural in Deerpark, Ashbourne, is bringing together young people, community organisations and residents in a celebration of creativity, diversity and community spirit.

The mural is being led by Linda Mackey of Meath Partnership and Cllr Helen Meyer, in collaboration with Ashbourne Tidy Towns and a number of local groups, including young people from Ashbourne United, Ashbourne Men's Shed, Youthreach, Foroige, IPAS and ACS Junior Tidy Towns, The Ashbourne and Killegland Women’s Shed along with others from the wider community.

Despite the rain, people came out to celebrate the project at a recent launch event and see the first stage of what promises to become a much larger community artwork.

The mural is intended to reflect the many things that make Ashbourne a great place to live — its people, places, natural environment, creativity and, most importantly, the connections between different parts of the community.

It is also a wonderful example of what can be achieved when local organisations work together and provide people with an opportunity to get involved, contribute their ideas and take pride in their town.

Cllr Helen Meyer said: “This is exactly the kind of community project that we should be celebrating in Ashbourne. It brings people together who might not otherwise have an opportunity to work alongside one another, and it gives young people a real sense of ownership and pride in their community.

“A huge amount of credit must go to Linda Mackey and Meath Partnership for bringing people together and helping to make this project happen, as well as to Ashbourne Tidy Towns and all of the local organisations and young people who have contributed.

“The mural is more than just a piece of artwork. It tells the story of our community and reflects the diversity, creativity and energy that exists in Ashbourne.”

The project is very much a work in progress, with a substantial length of wall still to be transformed. There are plans for additional murals to be developed over the coming months, creating an evolving piece of public art involving even more members of the local community.

“I think this is only the beginning. There is a long wall still to fill, and I’m really looking forward to seeing how the project develops and what other ideas and contributions emerge," said Cllr Meyer.

“It is fantastic to see different generations and community groups picking up paintbrushes, sharing ideas and creating something together.

“Well done to everyone who has been involved so far. This is community spirit at its very best.”