BOBZILLA LANDS AT CATHEDRAL SQUARE
Posted on: 7 February, 2022A massive mural, from the graphic artist Bobzilla, has now landed on the side of Cathedral Square.
Monument Real Estate (‘Monument’) and NE1 jointly launched a competition at the end of last year to install mural at the building. Bobzilla was finally chosen from a total of sixteen local artists who submitted their designs for their interpretations of the mural.
The mural is the first element of many ambitious plans for the building, which was built in the 1970s on the site of the city’s old town hall. Both Monument and NE1 are working on more creative improvements on the Cloth Market and hope to see these completed later this year.
Tom Wooldridge, executive director and founder of Monument, said “We were excited to see the range and quality of designs entered into the competition for the mural. Bobzilla’s mural breathes life and vibrancy into part of the building, demonstrating how public art can elevate and reposition real estate.
“A video and time lapse of the mural installation has also been created by Lawless Studio. We’re equally thrilled to see the result and await its reaction on social media.
“The support of NE1 in their regeneration of the Bigg Market was instrumental in our original acquisition of the building last year. They have continued to support our plans to invest in the building and public realm as part of their wider regeneration strategy”.
Alex Slack, Head of Special Projects at NE1, added “NE1 were absolutely delighted to collaborate with Monument Real Estate, Bobzilla and Lawless Studio to deliver the mural on Cathedral Square.
“Since the beginning of the Bigg Market project we have actively sought opportunities for the inclusion of public art in the area and this latest contemporary installation builds upon the successful delivery of commissions by, Ash Willerton, Yvette Earl and James Dixon (Lines Behind) during the last 6 months”.
Monument Real Estate, a regional real estate specialist, acquired 1- 2 Cathedral Square in 2021 with the support of local and institutional investors. The company is looking for similar opportunities in the North-East region as they aim to build on the success of this transaction.
Monument Real Estate offers asset management and structured finance services for commercial property investors and developers. They work with a wide network of private equity funds, institutional and local investors, focusing on opportunities in regional real estate.