Our Coast, Our Sea - Public toilet in Northumberland becomes arts venue

4 May 2010

Public toilet in Northumberland becomes arts venue

A public toilet in Northumberland has become the latest site for an arts project highlighting the county’s wildlife.

The exterior of the lavatory in the coastal village of Seahouses, has been revamped with huge images of seabirds.

The artwork has been created by visual artist Stuart Mugridge who is currently Seahouses’ appointed visiting artist.

Two 8ft (2.4m) tall images of an eider duck and yellowhammer will welcome visitors for the next five months.

The project has been developed by Inspire Northumberland and the Seahouses Development Trust with support from the Rural Development Programme for England.

The Northumberland Coast is recognised as a haven for wild birds, many of which flock to the nearby Farne Islands.

The featured birds were chosen for a specific reason with the the eider duck symbolising the sea and the yellowhammer representing the land.

Stuart said: “Seahouses is an interesting place to work and visit that has evolved down the years, with its contrast of heritage, wildlife and working harbour.

“I hope my work generates a genuine public response and will get people to stop and think about their personal surroundings.”