Bradford’s got Soul: New art trail celebrates youth creativity
A brand-new art trail launched in Allerton this weekend celebrating heritage, identity and the creativity of young Bradfordians.
The art trail was created by the Soul Girls, a group of young people aged 10 to 13 from Allerton, who meet weekly for friendship, creativity and wellbeing. Led by South Square Centre and supported by Rooted In and Kala Sangam, the group worked with a variety of artists and artforms to develop the trail as a way to use art to brighten up the local area.
The art trail officially launched this Saturday, 19 July, at the Allerton Summer Party. A trail map, designed by the Soul Girls, can be picked up from Café West in Allerton and the trail can be enjoyed throughout the summer holidays.
Gemma Bailey, Arts & Heritage Officer at South Square, said:
“We are so excited to share with you the Soul Girls Art Trail. The trail has been designed and delivered entirely by these fantastic young people, and we honestly couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved.
The artwork that makes up the trail has been many months in the making and includes a mosaic made from Lego, friendship garlands, heritage photographs, a painted mural and a Barbara Hepworth-inspired sculpture made from recycled materials. The Soul Girls have even planted a living willow sculpture! We hope you’ll agree that it’s a beautiful addition to Allerton and we urge you to grab a map and explore it for yourself during the summer months.”
The Soul Girls are run by Rooted In, a charity that seeks to build the community in Allerton and Lower Grange and drive positive social change in the area.
Kate Sulc, Programme Manager at Rooted In, said:
“It’s been such an amazing opportunity for our Soul Girls to work with South Square over the past year to create this incredible art trail. Throughout the project, the girls have had the chance to work with a range of talented artists, learning new skills and exploring creative ways to express their stories.
We’ve seen them grow in confidence, working together to produce beautiful and meaningful pieces that reflect their heritage and individual journeys. Each one of them has a powerful story to share, and this project has provided them with the space and tools to do that.
Now, seeing the art trail come to life across Allerton is truly special. I couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve achieved, their artwork is not only visually striking, but also a powerful celebration of identity, community, and resilience.”
The Soul Girls Art Trail can be enjoyed for free during the summer holidays. Find out more and download the map.