The project, which transformed the Old Quarter into an open-air gallery and community hub, officially opened yesterday.
And despite the morning drizzle, there was a warm welcome to the new displays.
Passer-by Paul Laine said it looked nice.
‘It’s nice to see that they’re trying to do something with the street, this is a vast improvement.’
Another passer-by said the artwork was ‘amazing, absolutely amazing, and long overdue.’ They said the project would ‘definitely bring new life to the Old Quarter’, and noted that they had heard visitors talking about it already.
Both highlighted the appreciation for the diverse artwork and the immediate visual lift it has given the area.
London artist Teddy Baden, who painted the ‘cat among the pigeons’ mural, said he had heard many similar comments.
‘The feedback has been 100% positive, because this is a cherished area of Guernsey.
‘This gives it a new breath of life, and people are happy to see colour on the walls.’
Local and international artists, alongside children from the charity’s Summer Holiday Art Club, have been working to reimagine the area.
Art for Guernsey’s decision to focus on Mansell Street was driven by a long-held vision to use art to revitalise the Old Quarter, which local artist Tim Gaudion described as having done ‘downhill’ in the last few years.
His piece features an underwater fantasy scene, inspired by Edward Hopper, and incorporating an octopus theme.
He said he found the week of street painting ‘absolutely incredible', relishing the opportunity to work alongside and bounce ideas off international artists, a rare chance for local creatives who often find themselves working in isolation.
‘It’s been an amazing, inspirational week here.
‘There’s just a real good buzz,’ Mr Gaudion said.
Mr Baden the process of creating the art was ‘very organic’, with artists encouraged to use every inch of the street. He particularly valued working with local artists.
‘It’s great. Artists are naturally collaborative people.
‘We can share canvases and share stories while we paint.’
He found his favourite part to be getting everyone to go through the gallery during rush hour, brightening people’s day with unexpected art.
Parisian artist Leo Dieleman, who contributed a vibrant mural and street signs, echoed this sentiment, praising Guernsey’s ‘amazing’ creative energy.
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