A striking new mural now takes pride of place on the exterior of our 224 Youth Zone, co-created with local artist Kid Crayon and shaped by the voices of young people from South Bristol.
Delivered in partnership with Upfest, this project put young people at the heart of the creative process from day one. Members of our Young People’s Development Group (YPDG) played a key role, selecting and voting for their preferred artist before choosing Kid Crayon to bring their ideas to life.
Our Young People’s Development Group is made up of local young people who have helped shape 224 from the very beginning. Their ideas, feedback and creativity have been central to ensuring the space reflects the needs, interests and aspirations of the community it serves.
On Friday 1 May, the mural was officially unveiled by the YPDG alongside Kid Crayon. Guests heard inspiring speeches from YPDG member Ruby Miles, our CEO Matt Justice, and Anne Nisbet, High Sheriff of Bristol, who spoke powerfully about the positive impact 224 will have on young people across the city.
Working closely with the YPDG, Kid Crayon led a series of creative sessions to develop initial ideas and concepts. Young people also took part in a hands-on spray-painting workshop, giving them the chance to explore graffiti art and contribute directly to the final design. Throughout the process, their voices guided every stage of the artwork’s development.
“This was an incredibly rewarding project to be part of. It’s amazing how something as simple as paint on a wall can help foster a sense of community and pride among these young people. It’s one of those rare projects where the brief goes far beyond just designing something visually appealing.”
Kid Crayon
Now proudly displayed on the side of our Youth Zone, the mural is a bold and vibrant celebration of South Bristol’s young voices. It reflects their creativity, identity and experiences, while embodying the values at the heart of 224: inclusion, community and opportunity. The artwork captures what Bristol means to young people today, celebrating diversity and a strong sense of belonging.
This project is just one example of how we create opportunities for young people at 224, introducing them to different hobbies and industries that can help them develop new skills, and open pathways into education and employment. Our aim is to support every young person to grow, thrive, and discover passions that could lead to futures they may never have imagined.
As we prepare to officially open our doors on 20 June, the mural stands as a powerful symbol of what 224 represents: a space shaped by young people, for young people.
Ahead of opening, young people who sign up as members will be invited to exclusive pre-opening sessions, offering a first look at our facilities and activities.
224 Youth Zone will be a vital space for young people across South Bristol, a safe, inspiring place to connect, learn and thrive.
Young people aged 8–19 (and up to 25 for those with additional needs) can sign up to become a member now.