City of Culture 2021: Street art transforms Coventry ahead of year in spotlight

David Speed's neon work forms part of In Paint We Trust, a city-wide street art festival

Artists have been busy transforming the centre of Coventry ahead of its year as City of Culture 2021.

The year-long cultural programme will start on 15 May 2021 with a film, organisers said.

Directed by Coventry producer Coolie, creative director Chenine Bhathena was tight-lipped about its contents, but said it would "say something quite extraordinary" about the city.

Although the festival officially begins on Saturday, its signature launch 'Coventry Moves', had to be pushed back three weeks to 5 June due to coronavirus restrictions.

Here are some of the ways the city centre has been brightened up ready for its big year.

Artist Morag Myerscough has been working with the city council in order to bring some colour into Hertford Street

A mural by artist Angry Dan pays tribute to the father of the bicycle industry James Starley

Artist Carrie Reichardt is working on a 2-Tone themed mosaic that will be placed at the Fairfax Entrance of Pool Meadow Bus Station

A new illuminated water feature and play area have transformed an area of the city centre , said the council

Pepper Lane in the city centre has been given a colourful makeover

Artist and illustrator Matt Chu created this 272 sq ft (27sq m) mural 'At One with Cofa's Tree' on Pepper Lane

Artist Zoe Power has created a 295ft (90m) installation in the city's bus station

The Pool Meadow mural by Zoe Power features key workers including teachers, cleaners and nurses

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