Upfest bring a wall of colour to the Gate

The area in the South East corner of the stadium, under the new singing section, is currently being decorated by three artists – Voyder, Inkie and Andy Council – to bring a new dimension to the concourse.

It follows on from Ashton Gate hosting part of Upfest 2017 in August.

Stephen Hayles, Upfest co-founder, said: “We were approached by Ashton Gate to produce something to adorn the walls, inspired by the fantastic street art that is seen across Bedminster and South Bristol.

“We came with a few ideas and then we settled on a final design, which is currently in process. Voyder set the background work to the piece, and then Inkie – a Bristol legend – came in to sort the lettering in the design and then we’ve got Andy Council coming in at the end of September to finish the central element – which remains a surprise at the moment.”

City plan to recognise club legends – both footballing and non-footballing – as part of the finished product.

Ashton Gate chairman Martin Griffiths said: “The heritage and history is key to any football club and that’s key to this artwork.

“On one side we’ll recognise the players, but – equally as important – we want to use it as a chance to recognise some unsung heroes who don’t kick a football but have still played a major role for the club over the years.

The new street art wall is opposite the Wedlocks Bar, which is adorned by the famous original Wedlocks pub sign, unveiled at the start of the season for the home game with Barnsley.

Plans are also afoot for a rugby equivalent in the South West corner of the stadium, to follow after completion works in that area, including a finished West Stand concourse floor.

Fans can view the progress made so far by the trio of artists in the gallery below. (Images courtesy of Myk Garton).