Urban Splash has a long tradition of championing art and artists within its neighbourhoods, working with Kid Acne at Park Hill, where his bold statement murals and 2019 exhibition helped re-establish the neighbourhood as a centre for creativity and design. Art has also been integral to Coles’ history, as Sian Stanhope, development manager at Urban Splash, explained: “Celebrating art and supporting artists has always been central to what we do – helping communities connect with regeneration in a more meaningful way. Sheffield has such a strong creative spirit, and it’s a privilege to be part of projects like this that reflect and build on that legacy.

“Coles has a long-standing connection to the arts. The building’s original architects, Yorke, Rosenberg and Mardall, incorporated numerous pieces of artwork, and in this context, Ed’s mural aligns with the ethos of the original architects. Its text-based design also complements their modernist approach, reflecting influences from the Bauhaus movement.”

The mural will remain in place as part of the meanwhile activation of the site, bringing colour and vibrancy to the area as redevelopment plans progress. Kid Acne concluded: “I’m grateful to be invited to paint something on part of such an iconic building in the centre of Sheffield. I created a design I feel complements the unusual composition of the concrete elevation. By wrapping the text around the corner of Cross Burgess Street, my intention is to invite the viewer to a specific viewpoint where the work can be read in a single instance, and to perhaps take a moment to reflect on their own journey and alignment, whatever that might be. The arrows represent the different directions each of us are heading, which celebrates the diversity of the city. I would also encourage people to take a moment to appreciate the incredible, historic backdrop, which I look forward to seeing returned to its former glory. Thank you to Friends of Sheffield City Centre for the opportunity.”