Wheelworks Arts to Infuse Creativity and Artistry into Farewell Event at Great Victoria Street Train Station
As Belfast bids adieu to its iconic Great Victoria Street Train Station on May 10, Wheelworks Arts (WWA) is gearing up to infuse the event with a vibrant tapestry of creativity and artistry.
The closure of the station, in anticipation of the imposing unveiling of the new state-of-the-art Belfast Grand Central Station, marks the end of an era while heralding the dawn of a new era in Belfast’s transportation landscape.
WWA is collaborating with children from various local schools to inject a sense of joy and creativity into the event. Children from St Joseph’s, St Mary’s, Blithe St, Fane St and Donegall Rd Primary Schools will engage in a myriad of creative activities, ensuring that the day is not only memorable but also filled with artistic expression.
One of the highlights of the event is the outdoor space where participants can indulge in various activities. A Selfie Booth will allow individuals to capture moments and memories, with photos then being incorporated into a photomosaic projected on the wall—a testament to the collective experiences shared at the station. The Quiver extension adds an interactive element, inviting participants to unleash their imagination by decorating train sheets in the Quiver education app.
Moreover, the Guest Book provides an opportunity for guests to leave their mark, quite literally, by signing in with a message or drawing in a colour corresponding to their area—a colourful homage to the diverse community that has frequented the station over the years.
Inside the station, on WWA’s mobile creative spaces, the ArtCart and ChillCart, children can immerse themselves in imaginative activities. From drawing fictional maps connecting imaginary places to envisioning themselves as characters from Thomas the Tank Engine, there's no shortage of creative outlets for young minds to explore.
The Train Green Screen activity takes participants on a virtual journey, allowing them to decorate a transparent image of a train before immersing themselves in a virtual environment. Similarly, the Background Animation activity invites participants to unleash their creativity by drawing on a pre-set background, with their creations later collated into an animated masterpiece.
By incorporating these creative elements into the farewell event, WWA seeks to not only celebrate the legacy of Great Victoria Street Train Station but also pave the way for a future where art and creativity continue to flourish in Belfast's evolving landscape. As the old makes way for the new, it's not just about closing a chapter but also opening doors to endless possibilities fuelled by imagination and innovation.