Revamp the Ramps

Maidstone Skate Park Ramps get a Revamp!

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) has worked with a group of youngsters to revamp the skate park ramps at the Green Flag award-winning Whatman Park this summer.

Young people from Maidstone were invited by MBC to take part in a design workshop earlier this month where they came up with skate-boarding terms and themes for the new artwork. The art session was led by local street artist, Graham Upton, who taught basic techniques in how to create bespoke letters and designs.

Seven youngsters spent at least one day each working with Graham to bring their ideas to life on the skate boarding ramps in Whatman Park, learning how to use paints to create large scale designs. All four of the main ramps received colourful new artworks giving a fresh and vibrant look to the park.

The project was funded through the national Safer Streets Campaign and is one of several initiatives carried out this year by MBC to engage young people with different art forms and creative opportunities.

Cabinet Member for Communities, Leisure and Art at MBC, Cllr Claudine Russell said: “This project was a great opportunity for youngsters to try their hand at something completely different that they might not otherwise have a chance to experience.

“The new artwork has improved the look and feel of the skate park in Whatman Park making it an even more welcoming space for people of all ages to enjoy.”

The artworks have been protected with a special anti-graffiti coating to ensure they will continue to look their best for many years to come.

Claudine added: “The Council would like to say a huge thank you to the young people who took the time to take part in the project including Ruby, Aoife, Luke, Leo, Max, James and Cillian for their hard work over the four days to create the stunning designs.”