A NEW arts initiative has been launched to create street murals representing Northwich’s past, present and future.

Project Happy will see engaging street artworks displayed in Barons Quay and the town centre to bring some much-needed positivity during what is currently a very difficult time.

It also aims to reward local charities and individuals that have helped people during the coronavirus outbreak.

The project will be co-ordinated by north west artist Emma Evans, with three painted murals expected to be completed in July.

Organisers are keen to involve the local community and have launched a competition for local children under 16 to get creative and draw and an object that makes them happy.

One drawing will be chosen to be part of the mural at Barons Quay and the winner will also receive a £50 voucher to spend at The Entertainer. Five runners-up will win a £20 voucher. 

Lina Higuita, centre manager at Barons Quay, said: “The aim of Project Happy is to embrace all the positive things about Northwich, whether that’s our heritage or the spirit which local people have shown throughout the coronavirus outbreak. 

“We know that this has been an incredibly difficult time for local people and businesses, so we are aiming to bring positivity to the town and celebrate local heroes over the next few months.

“We have seen that children and their families are getting creative at home, painting rainbows and using art to keep their spirits up, and they have inspired our street arts project.”

Cllr Richard Beacham, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and growth, said: “The past few months have been challenging for us all and some more than others.

“The full impact of coronavirus on our communities and economy is not yet known, but despite all of this, it’s important that we can look to a future beyond this crisis. 

“Our mental health and well-being and that of the young people in Northwich has never been more important, so Project Happy is a fantastic opportunity for local children to get involved with art and leave their mark on their town.

“People in Northwich are so proud of the town, and this project is about using that positivity to create something for everyone to enjoy, as soon as they are safely able to do so.”

Entrants must draw one object on A4 paper and ask their parents to take a photo of it and post it on social media, tagging @BaronsQuay and using #ProjectHappy by June 26.