Empty shops – a sign of the current economic struggle – are a depressing sight, and Alderney’s Victoria Street too, has been looking a little sad…. until now!
An initiative by the Alderney Chamber of Commerce, supported by St. Anne’ s School, has transformed Alderney’s principal shopping street into a public art gallery.
Empty premises have been livened up with colourful displays of artwork and drawings, created by the pupils of St Anne’s Schools, adding a sparkle and entertainment to what were previously rather sad looking empty premises. Now walking up and down Victoria Street has turned into a pleasant talent spotting discovery tour for shoppers, residents and visitors and the displays have already created much interest and applause.
The pictures will remain there for a month or two and may subsequently be replaced with new pieces of artwork by older students or possibly the Alderney Art Club – unless of course the premises have found new owners to accommodate a new business venture.
The Chamber would like to thank St. Anne’s School’s pupils and the owners of the properties for allowing us to transform Victoria Street into a happy street and we hope that owners of a few more remaining empty premises will also allow us to enhance their shop window with a little bit of art.