Sutton’s new mural encourages residents to ‘Look to the Stars’

The new mural on Portland Square, Sutton, depicting Sutton’s past and future has been completed.

The incredible mural was painted in just 32 hours using spray paint by internationally known artist Zabou. Zabou is a French street artist based in London. She travels the world painting her photo realist murals.

The mural has officially been named ‘Look at the Stars’ by Zabou who always names her creations after she has painted them.

The Sutton mural features the Walton Stocking Factory in the background representing Sutton’s long history of hosiery manufacturing. Freya, the girl in the foreground is a junior member of Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society viewing the stars at Sherwood Observatory, representing Sutton’s bright future.

Located on the side of the building occupied by Kim’s Diner, the project is being delivered as part of the Welcome Back Fund. The mural is a new attraction for the town centre and part of the Council’s commitment to delivering town centre improvements.

Cllr Jason Zadrozny, Leader of Ashfield District Council, said:

“The impact of cultural experiences can't be underestimated. Good art starts conversations, inspires, and encourages creativity in everyone. The Sutton mural has been doing exactly that. We have had hundreds of responses to the mural both online and in person. We were approached by several residents whilst Zabou was painting it and they all had fantastic comments to share with us.”

Councillor Matt Relf, the Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said:

“We are so proud of this mural which represents Ashfield's past and our bright future. We have a long history of being connected to science and technology with the famous links to Ada Lovelace and Sherwood Observatory in Sutton.

“Sherwood Observatory will be benefiting from the Town’s Funding to transform it into a state of the art educational facility. Freya, the girl in the mural, is a young astrologer with a passion for space who will inspire another generation of young people, just as Ada has.”

Zabou said:

"It was a pleasure to paint my first mural of 2022 in Sutton and meet the local community. I hope that my work will brighten up people's day, maybe inspire them, and hopefully shine a light on both the future and the past of the town."

Freya commented on her experience of being part of the mural:

"I was so excited to be asked to be part of the mural a few months ago. We had a photoshoot with Zabou which was fun, and then we got to watch it being painted. I’m really proud to be a part of it, I love being a member of Sherwood Observatory and I think the mural makes the town centre look amazing! I hope it stays there for a long time."