Flying geese mural 'reflects city's changing face'

In Carlisle, a vibrant new mural has been unveiled in the Lowther Arcade, a historic shopping center that dates back to 1904. This stunning artwork, created by street artist Woskerski, features a pair of geese soaring through a bright blue sky, surrounded by clouds painted in shades of pink, orange, and purple, as if illuminated by the sun's rays. The mural stretches elegantly above the shopfronts, adding a splash of color and life to the arcade. Woskerski utilized a lift to reach the high areas of the wall, ensuring that every detail of the mural was perfectly executed. The mural is not just a beautiful image; it carries a deeper meaning, symbolizing movement, unity, and the ongoing transformation of Carlisle. Anne Quilter, who is a member of the Cumberland Council, expressed her excitement about the mural, stating that it is a fantastic example of how new life is being infused into the city's historic spaces. She emphasized that Lowther Arcade has always been a cherished part of Carlisle's heritage, and this artwork brings a modern energy that celebrates both the city's past and its future. The arcade serves as a connection between Lowther Street and English Street, making it a vital part of the city's layout. The mural was created in partnership with Blank Wall Assassins, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing art to urban environments. The council believes that this mural represents the ongoing transformation of Carlisle, showcasing the city's commitment to revitalization. The bright colors of the clouds and the geese create a lively atmosphere in the arcade, making it a delightful experience for visitors. The mural is positioned beneath the roof windows and above the red shopfronts, making it a prominent feature of the arcade. A spokesperson for Blank Wall Assassins shared that this mural is part of a larger street art tour in Carlisle and has received an overwhelmingly positive response from the public. They noted that many people stopped to admire the mural while it was being painted, and the online comments have been incredibly encouraging. The spokesperson also mentioned that working in the arcade presented some challenges due to its narrow design, which stretches over 100 meters in length. To tackle this, Woskerski used an electric scissor lift to safely reach the higher sections of the walls. This mural is part of a broader initiative to regenerate English Street, which is being implemented through the Carlisle Southern Gateway project. This project is part of a £100 million regeneration program for Carlisle, funded by the government's Future High Streets Fund, Town Deal, and Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal initiative. The aim of these changes is to enhance infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and create a more attractive and accessible city center for everyone to enjoy.