UV Arts is a youth art collective in Derry, Northern Ireland that seeks to build community through creative expression and challenge the political and ideological divide, specifically, through graffiti, murals, and other forms of visual art (https://www.nesta.org.uk/feature/new-radicals-2018/uv-arts/). The following three murals were all created and designed by youth participating at UV Arts.
A UV Arts mural inside of the walls displays in colorful lettering the phrase “Mind Your Head”. This is in reference to a mental health campaign. The mural is meant to emphasize the mental health concerns of the people that live in Derry. Many residents are dealing with the lasting impacts of the troubles that have led to high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and death by suicide among community members. In fact, Northern Ireland has the highest rate of suicide in the United Kingdom. It is reported that 5 people die by suicide each week (https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-foyle-west-49718458). Suicide and mental health issues touch every person in the Derry community and most recently a well-know radio show host named Stephen Clements who passed on January 7th, 2020.
In Derry, murals are among the most common forms of political expression and remembrance. Some murals on the Bogside of Derry are dedicated to remembering the victims of the troubles and others showcase a more blatant political message such as anti-PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland). UV Arts, however, is changing the message of murals, not only throughout the Bogside but in every part of Derry. This mural, titled “Weeds Shall Overcome”, highlights a different, more environmental justice-focused message. The idea for the mural came from the EU and UK air quality findings in the Bogside, which found higher levels of nitrogen dioxide than reccommended. (https://www.derryjournal.com/news/weeds-shall-overcome-the-clarion-cry-as-mural-highlights-eco-issues-1-8641760). The bee and wildflowers represent the need to protect the environment through letting weeds grow and continuing to not use pesticides in the landscaping and supporting the local ecosystem. This mural highlights the concerns about climate change and the environment of the younger generation of Derry.
A recent addition to the side of Badgers pub includes a mural dedicated to the show “Derry Girls.” This mural represents what younger generations of Derry residents find important and want to showcase. There seems to be a shift from focuses on the past to a look towards the present and future of the community.
SOCI 387 Diversity, Conflict, and Peace in Northern Ireland 