The story behind the David Bowie Ziggy Stardust mural hidden in Hartlepool's town centre

Idols, an indie bar in Hartlepool is behind the Ziggy Stardust mural that was painted last summer after the business’ capacity was dramatically reduced due to coronavirus restrictions and outdoor socialising was encouraged.

The artwork was painted in August 2020 to create a ‘beer alley’. Bar owner, Michelle Gate obtained a pavement licence from the council for the impressive artwork which features the late singer-songwriter David Bowie.

The ‘beer alley’ was designed to brighten the outdoor area so that customers had space and a unique scene surrounding them.

The vibrant masterpiece was painted by artist Toby who also painted artwork on the shutters along Church Street in Hartlepool.

Michelle said: “Our beer alley was a great success in the summer, we had lights, bunting and canopies up, making the area a unique outdoor space and transforming what is usually just a back alley.

"We decided on Bowie because he’s a legend and it fit the theme of our bar – our customers love it.”

It is hoped the artwork will help inspire other projects to assist in breathing new life into Hartlepool town centre.

Following on from artist Toby’s other project which has seen building shutters decorated with graffiti to improve their appearance, there have been talks taking place on using objects and art to ‘animate windows’ in Church Street.

The bar is hoping to get permission to paint more famous faces for other buildings in the alley area ready for reopening.

Michelle added: “It took Toby two days to do and loads of people have been to see the artwork, we love it.

"We even had a lady travel from London to come and see it!”

It’s hoped the Bowie mural will not be the only artwork on show in the area after a ‘history in lights’ scheme is also in the works for the thoroughfare, which would see images and information about the history of the street projected onto buildings.

The David Bowie display is located behind Whitby Street in Hartlepool town centre.

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