Local Young People Unveil New Mural Depicting Kilkeel’s Maritime Heritage

A new maritime mural featuring Kilkeel Harbour has been unveiled, providing a splash of colour along the Manus Lane pathway leading to the harbour.

The mural, which has breathed fresh life into a well-used area, was designed and created as part of a Re-imagining project with young members from The Friday Night Youth Club based in the Nautilus Centre in Kilkeel.

The members took part in workshops facilitated by artist, Conor McGinley and Youth Support Worker, Ann McGivern from the Education Authority.  These were aimed at improving children’s wellbeing through participation in art, using art to link them to their local heritage. During the sessions the group agreed to focus on Kilkeel Harbour as the theme for the mural at Manus Lane.

Talking about the project, Chairperson of the Mournes DEA Forum, Councillor Henry Reilly said, “My congratulations go out to all the members of the Friday Night Youth Club and to Conor and Ann on their creativity.  They have truly captured the maritime heritage of the local harbour on the mural at Manus Lane.  This Re-Imaging project has developed a sense of pride of place for the local area and has transformed a well-used public space that will benefit all those who live and visit here.”

Kilkeel Development Association Chief Executive, Donna McConnell said, “I would like to acknowledge the support of the Mourne DEA Forum, which funded this project and to Newry, Mourne and Down District Council who ensured the area was power-washed before the project commenced.  I also want to congratulate everyone involved, the mural depicts how our local heritage is seen through the eyes of young people.”