Danksy, the well-known Cheltenham artist, has just completed a commission to paint the ugly utility box next to the new WWI Battlefield Crosses museum in the cemetery on Bouncers Lane.
“Previously, the utility box was a real eyesore,” said Civic Society Chair, Andrew Booton. “But Danksy has now made it into an integral and relevant part of the museum’s overall attraction.”
With sponsorship from Cheltenham Borough Council (CBC) via the cemetery, Danksy has painted the box to create a scene featuring the iconic poppies associated with the WWI battlefields in Belgium and France, where the soldiers commemorated by their original grave-marker crosses in the museum fell in battle.
Cllr Izaac Tailford, CBC’s cabinet member for waste, recycling and public realm, said: “This stunning piece of art is a beautiful addition to the museum and pulls notable attention to our history and those who fought for our country. Such art is a welcome contribution to our historical culture.”
Benjamin Jenkins, the cemetery manager said: “Danksy’s fabulous artwork has transformed the utility box and she has created something that really adds value and promotes the Battlefield Crosses museum. I couldn’t have asked for a better piece of artwork to cover the box and be part of something special in our Cemetery. Great job Danksy!”
Danksy said: “It’s been an honour painting this utility box. I’ve created a mural which reflects and commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives in WWI. It’s peaceful yet eye-catching.”
Cheltenham Civic Society (CCS) – through the efforts of CCS member, Colin Smith – has now raised more than £12,000, nearly all of which has been used to repair the building and create the museum. CBC provided the building – a former gravediggers’ hut – and sponsored Danksy to convert the utility box into a stunning mural.
Danksy’s other local work includes several utility boxes along the High Street, including a ‘Cheltenham Races’ inspired box outside John Lewis, a wild flower box, and a utility box covered in pigeons, who are thought to have discovered the town’s spa waters. She has also painted the outside of the Botanist Bar with large botanical leaves.
CCS soon expects to announce further sponsorships funding raised by Colin Smith to create a website for the museum and to undertake maintenance of the building and displays over the next five years.