A fantastic commission initiated by Poole Business Improvement District (BID) and artistically created by Kizzibcreative has seen another addition to the growing mural art in and around Poole Town. These latest ones at Towngate Bridge by Poole train station have transformed the public space, making it more vibrant and representative of the local environment. Kizzi’s representation of red squirrels, gannets, and sandwich terns is particularly meaningful since they all have connections to the Poole area.
Red squirrels are notable residents of nearby Brownsea Island, one of the few places in southern England where this native species still thrives.
Gannets are seabirds frequently seen along the coasts, including around Poole and its surrounding waters.
Sandwich terns are elegant seabirds often spotted in Poole Harbour and along the Dorset coast.
By incorporating these species, Kizzi not only adds beauty but also highlights the unique wildlife and nature that is so integral to the identity of Poole and these cluster of murals creates a visual celebration of local biodiversity.
Kizzi added: “My latest mural on Towngate Bridge is inspired by the majestic gannets that grace Dorset’s coastline. Often misunderstood and unfairly labelled as ‘greedy,’ gannets are, in fact, one of the most graceful and romantic seabirds, renowned for their beauty in flight and their tender, gift-giving courtship rituals. These birds are not only striking with their brilliant white feathers and soft yellow heads, but they also play a vital role in the coastal ecosystem. By honouring them through art, I hope to challenge their negative perception and remind us of the importance of celebrating and protecting these incredible seabirds.”
Additionally, Kizzi has been Inspired by the vibrant red squirrels of Brownsea Island and she says: “I created a tribute to one of the UK’s most iconic and endangered species. Red squirrels play a crucial role in regenerating our pine woodlands, and with their numbers dwindling due to habitat loss and the spread of grey squirrels, it’s more important than ever to protect them. For me, this artwork is a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our natural world, and a call to honour and safeguard the wildlife that makes it so special.”
“Thank you to Poole BID for this amazing opportunity to have my work in Poole. And to The Dolphin Poole for all your help and input into this project.”
Kizzi created this commission with 100% recycled materials by Tomorrow artist and was ably assisted by Chelsea May Illustrations.
Jacqui Rock, Poole BID Lead commented: “We strongly believe that the addition of murals enhances the overall experience for Poole Town as a destination for residents and visitors alike, and public art like this fosters a sense of
pride in the local community while also supporting the town’s cultural and artistic identity.”
“It is important to us that any public art we commission adheres to Poole and its heritage and so seeing the final results of a year long project which guided Kizzi to produce our latest creative artwork for the town is wonderful to see.”
“We’d also like to thank The Dolphin, Legal & General and BCP Council, without who this commission could not have been completed.”
John Grinnell, Centre Manager of The Dolphin Poole, said, “We’re really pleased with how the murals have turned out. Kizzi’s artwork has helped enhance the appearance of an area that we’ve long felt has needed some TLC.
This joint initiative between The Dolphin and Poole BID fits in well with our wider plan to transform The Dolphin into a welcoming place for the local community. Our previous initiatives have had a similar focus, seeing the opening of Kingland, FOUNDRY Poole, GATHER, and most recently, The Dolphin Street Food.”
