AN AMBITIOUS project to create a giant 16 metre high mural in Newton Abbot town centre is to include contributions from art students.

The ‘community tree’ has been designed by local artist Joe Webber and is focusing on the community’s relationship with nature.

Students from Coombeshead Academy are contributing by submitting nature-inspired words for inclusion in the mural.

Joe is well known for his ‘landscape-graffiti’ paintings which explore the relationship between human activity and nature and has exhibited his work across the UK as well as internationally.

The tree will take the form of a 16 metre high mural in Golden Lion Square and is inspired by a giant oak tree which was felled in 1922 to make way for the war memorial at the end of Queen Street.

At the time, the loss of the tree caused a large public outcry.

The project is bringing in members of the community who have been invited to contribute by offering stories, photos and memories of their favourite trees within the town.

Joe explained: ‘This project is about ‘placemaking’ – harnessing local people’s inspiration and creativity to improve the health, happiness, and well-being of where we live.

‘Street-Art like this is wonderfully inclusive and accessible for everyone.

‘We chose a particularly visible wall in disrepair, and with the community’s input are transforming it into a vibrant and colourful space focused on our relationship with nature.

‘It’s been a pleasure to work with schools again and to give something back to my local community.

‘We’re so grateful to all the people who have contributed the hundreds of words which will be woven into the foliage of the tree as a chorus of local voices.’

Graphics students from the school have started typography work for the project which will see their stencils being used to create the mural.

The project has been co-developed by Joe, Action on Climate in Teignbridge, Rotary Newton Abbot and Significant Seams.

It is being made possible by Government Levelling Up Funding and Teignbridge Council with support from a wide range of local groups and organisations.

The CREATE Creative Arts Academy at Coombeshead Academy is home to specialist studios and teachers offering learning in a range of creative courses.

Helen Coulson, Headteacher at Coombeshead Academy, said: ‘We’re incredibly proud of our students for contributing their ideas and creativity to this unique project.

‘It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to engage with the community while also showcasing the talent we nurture here at Coombeshead Academy.

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:

‘I am delighted to hear that Coombeshead students are contributing to this mural - not only does it celebrate the deep connection between our town and nature, but it also highlights the collaborative spirit of our local schools and community.

‘I am excited to see the impact this art will have for years to come.’