A community farm in Gateshead has undergone a colourful renovation, with a new western theme created by mural artist Andy Morley of Creative Ginger.
Western-themed barn and interactive murals
The 58-year-old artist, from Denton Burn, Newcastle, has transformed the main barn at Bill Quay Farm in the Bill Quay area of Gateshead. The barn now features a saloon area with interactive murals, including a piano that visitors can pretend to play, as well as a large painting of a cowboy on a horse.
Morley said: "I love it. I have always been a fan of western movies. When you walk into the barn it looks like you're walking down a western high street."
He added: "A couple of the murals I have tried to make interactive. In the saloon area, I've painted a piano so people can sit and pretend to play the piano. The kids can have fun rather than just look at the mural."
New café and other areas decorated
Morley has also produced a vibrant mural, containing flowers, plants and coffee, on the side of 'The Potting Shed' - a new café which is set to open soon. He has decorated other areas of the farm, including the bus diner and the toilets.
Speaking about his work, Morley said: "I've been doing a lot of animals which are pulling faces! I've been trying to make them fun. All the murals are freehand and painted using aerosol paints."
He added: "I remember taking my kids when they were younger to the farm. It's a pleasure to be able to put something back into the community."
Farm's community role
Dianne Holliday, 51, Director of Development and Education at the farm, said: "We have had a revamp of the farm. The main barn has a western theme. It just adds a bit more fun to the farm. It just brings it to life."
The farm, which is free to visit, has pigs, lambs, goats, alpacas, geese, ducks and chickens, as well as smaller animals such as rabbits, chinchillas, ferrets and Guinea pigs.
Holliday said: "We're a community farm and it's about having people come and experience the animals."
She added: "We work with schools doing alternative provision and we work with colleges offering supportive internships. It's important to provide some opportunity for young people and I don't think there's a lot out there."
