As part of an artistic collaboration between Liverpool and Ukrainian artists, MerseyMade has unveiled a huge mural that features more than 60 Liverpool musicians, Sam Ryder, and the current Eurovision champion Kalush Orchestra.
The eye-catching artwork was installed at the SP Energy Networks substation on Paradise Street, which leads to M&S Bank Arena, and is sure to strike a chord with music lovers during Eurovision.
Inspired by Peter Blake’s legendary Sgt Pepper album cover, the mural features a collage by Liverpool artist Susannah-Rachel Gorman, which depicts some of the city’s most influential musicians from The Beatles, Gerry Marsden and Cilla Black to Echo and The Bunnymen, The Christians and The Lightning Seeds. Bursting with vibrant colours, the artwork also features some of Liverpool’s best known pop stars including Eurovision icon Sonia, Atomic Kitten and Rebecca Ferguson, as well as up and coming local indie bands such as The Cheap Thrills, The Mysterines, Banners, Zuzu and King Hannah.
Ukrainian artist Aileen River created a portrait of Kalush Orchestra especially for the mural, while fellow Ukrainians Victoria Ustymenko and Maria Maksym painted nightingales and sunflowers to represent their country alongside poppies as a symbol of remembrance and hope. The work of two MerseyMade artists is also featured in the dazzling mural; an illustration of the iconic Liver Buildings by Grace Emily and a portrait of Sam Ryder by Laleh Kamalian. Joining together the city’s home-grown musicians with Eurovision stars, the artwork is in keeping with the ‘United by Music’ theme of this year’s event.
Mike McCartney visited MerseyMade as the mural was unveiled. He said:
“It’s lovely and pictures the old and new Liverpool – a nice idea. It’s the highlights of Liverpool. MerseyMade asked me for a picture of Scaffold and I gave a picture that’s been incorporated. It’s full of wonderful Liverpool stars and it’s an honour to be among them – on a wall in Liverpool in Eurovision!”
Speaking on the uplifting artwork, MerseyMade Founder, Vicky Gawith, said:
“The mural looks fantastic and it’s been wonderful to work with such a talented group of artists from Liverpool and Ukraine to create this special artwork for the city. We’re extremely grateful to SP Energy Networks for supporting this project and allowing us to use the Paradise Street substation as part of our Eurovision celebrations.
“This year’s Eurovision Song Contest is particularly important for my family as my step-mum Galina, who has lived in Liverpool for many years, is Ukrainian. When the war broke out, her sister Luda took the difficult decision to leave her home and head to Liverpool for safety. She has been given a very warm welcome by the city and the team at MerseyMade, where she has become a valued member of staff at our Scribble café. We now also have a very talented Ukrainian baker called Nataliia working with us after she fled to Liverpool to escape the conflict. It’s a real privilege for Liverpool to host Eurovision on behalf of Ukraine and we’re all very much looking forward to joining the festivities.”
Liam O’Sullivan, SP Energy Networks Licence Director for the region, said:
“There’s a real buzz about the city with all things Eurovision now underway and it’s great to see so many people get involved in the many events and activities taking place. As a proud part of the local community, we’re really excited to work with MerseyMade to bring this stunning artwork to life and create a colourful and eye-catching backdrop for the tens of thousands of people and visitors who will flock to Liverpool for this iconic event.
“I have no doubt the city and people of Liverpool will be brilliant hosts for Eurovision. We’re incredibly proud to play our part and ensure the network is in fine tune, with our Paradise Street substation not only helping keep the lights on and power flowing – but actually becoming part of the city’s celebrations and showing that we are all united by music.”
Prints of the mural are available at MerseyMade, with all profits supporting The Ukrainian Welcome Centre in Crosby and from there onto people in Ukraine. MerseyMade’s Scribble café is also donating funds to the charity from all drinks served in the limited edition ‘Good Cup’, featuring Eurovision artwork by local artist and MerseyMade resident Kate Bigley.
In addition, the venue is showcasing the work of Ukrainian artists during Eurovision week and hosting a yellow and blue flower crown masterclass with Channel 4’s Gemma Longworth. There will also be free interactive creative sessions, where guests will be invited to paint or colour in a special Samchykivka drawing called ‘Home’, designed by Ukrainian artist Victoria Radochyna. These special drawings will be taken back to Ukraine and given to people who have fled their homes because of the war, as a way of sending greetings from Liverpool.
MerseyMade, which is brimming with unique creations from local artists and artisans, combines a delightful shop with a charming café, artists’ studios and an intimate events space. Visitors can find a treasure trove of delights at the creative hub, ranging from original paintings, prints and jewellery to homeware, organic skincare, craft gins, gifts and cards. There are also special souvenirs available by MerseyMade artists including Sophie Green, Grace Emily, Jenny Dunlop, Clare Watson and David Nopov, which have been created to mark Eurovision and Liverpool’s unique partnership with Ukraine.
MerseyMade is open from 9am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and 10am to 5pm on Sundays. To find out more follow MerseyMade on Instagram @merseymadeuk
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