Brief
After the closure of a major shop chain on prime position of the high street, the brief was to design graphics to improve the visual appearance and offer something of interest to the public as they pass. It spans nearly 40 metres long on the high street and after a 90 degree turn another length of over 15 metres.

The site is located within a conservation area and restrictions apply. A fine line exists to be sympathetic and keep the look and feel of the high street. An option is to promote local businesses and attractions due to the challenges of the pandemic, although consent does not permit this. The chosen avenue is to show case some of the local heritage sites and offer not only interesting facts but educational ones too. The aim to interact with the passing public and if possible, increase footfall.

The brief – second development
The brief evolved as the ‘Lights in the City’ festival was due to start. There was then the exciting opportunity to incorporate some light effects into the window panels. At that point I was asked what could be done.

Using some of the great imagery available of the historic attractions in the area the idea came to use translucent cut out areas to make these features ‘pop’ from the windows when illuminated. The fabulous stained glass windows of the Cathedral was an obvious choice. It also had to be factored in that the display still needed to work without illumination and during the day.