Colchester Institute students create Jumbo artwork for The Big Draw Festival

ART and design students from Colchester Institute took on a Jumbo-sized project for The Big Draw Festival.

After climbing Colchester’s Jumbo tower, the Level 2 art students, led by tutor Liberty Brusaferro, were inspired to create a piece of art for the national event.

The artwork in front of Jumbo(Image: North Essex Heritage)

Each artist was given a square from a photograph of the Grade ll* listed building, which they interpreted in their own way.

These individual sections were then taped together on the pavement to form a giant image of the disused Victorian water tower.

The finished artwork viewed from the top of Jumbo(Image: North Essex Heritage)

The afternoon of creativity delighted passers-by who watched the artwork taking shape.

Liberty said: “The theme of this year’s The Big Draw is Drawn Together, so I am delighted that together the students were able to collectively celebrate Jumbo.

“This was an invaluable opportunity for our students who not only developed their observational skills but also created work that connects them to an important part of Colchester’s heritage.”

Students and tutors taping together the art(Image: North Essex Heritage)

Joseph Rawlings, programme manager for The Jumbo Project, said: “We are delighted to have been able to support the development of these artists.

“As part of our support for local educators through our Teachers’ Network, we are sharing Jumbo’s history and exciting future with the young people of Colchester.

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“We would love to hear from teachers who want to get involved in our education programme.”

The artwork in front of Jumbo(Image: North Essex Heritage)

The charity North Essex Heritage’s The Jumbo Project aims to produce a commercially viable operation which pays for the building’s upkeep.

The work will cost an estimated £10.9 million and see the building run as a destination venue, visitor experience and accessible heritage interpretation space.

The Jumbo Project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, UK Government Funding, Historic England, Colchester Council and other funders.

Student Owen and tutor Liberty Brusaferro taking part in The Big Draw Festival(Image: North Essex Heritage)

Students at work at Jumbo(Image: North Essex Heritage)

Students at work at Jumbo(Image: North Essex Heritage)