middlesbrough-themed artwork on display at the acklam green centre

Actes Trust is proud to be hosting a stunning new piece of artwork at the Acklam Green Centre - and even prouder that it has been created by young people who wanted to show what Middlesbrough means to them.

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The framed collage was created by students from Transitions College, a specialist education provider supporting young people aged 16 and over with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), based at the Acklam Green Centre. Our Chief Exec - Paul Wales, invited students to take part in a creative project to produce a “We Are Middlesbrough” artwork that would be proudly displayed in the centre.​ The brief set by Paul encouraged students to explore their local identity and reflect on what Middlesbrough means to them as a community.

 

They embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, heading out into the town to photograph familiar landmarks and meaningful places. These images - including the Riverside Stadium, the Transporter Bridge and Stewart Park - became inspirations and reference points for their designs.

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Throughout the project, students were supported by teacher Gemma Whitwell, who guided them in developing their artistic skills and confidence. Each week introduced a new creative technique, including mono printing, marbling and watercolour. This hands‑on, experimental approach allowed students to explore texture, colour and composition, resulting in a vibrant collection of personal artworks that truly reflect their connection to Middlesbrough.

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Renowned Middlesbrough artist Mackenzie Thorpe was a key inspiration for the piece, with students studying examples of his work as part of the project. Mackenzie also sent a special video message to encourage the group and his support with the project helped reinforce the idea that creativity can be a powerful way to tell personal and community stories.

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The project was made possible thanks to funding from the Community Recovery Fund, distributed by Middlesbrough Council. As part of our role supporting community development through Acklam Green Centre, Actes Trust distributed a small pot of funding to ensure it reached smaller grassroots organisations that may not usually apply directly for council funding.

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The artwork was unveiled last month at the Acklam Green Centre during a celebratory event attended by students and their families. Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke joined the unveiling and was given a tour of Transitions College, taking time to meet students and learn more about their work.

 

The project was even featured on BBC Radio Tees, giving students the opportunity to share their experiences and talk proudly about the creativity, teamwork and sense of community behind the artwork. You can listen to the recorded feature here, brought together by Transitions College and accompanied by a slideshow of photographs capturing the unveiling day.​​​​​