York’s historical charm has received a colorful boost with the unveiling of the ‘Outside the Box’ public art project. This innovative initiative has transformed twelve exchange boxes on The Stonebow, bringing York’s rich stained-glass heritage to life through striking mini murals. Spearheaded by York BID in collaboration with Explore York Libraries and Archives, York Civic Trust, and York Glaziers Trust, this project adds a vivid splash of color to the cityscape.
A Fusion of History and Art
The transformation of these exchange boxes, once marred by graffiti and stickers, has been masterfully executed by HazardOne, a globally renowned street artist. Drawing inspiration from York’s archives of stained glass, HazardOne has recreated the intricate designs of J.W. Knowles & Sons, a distinguished family firm known for their work on York Minster’s St Cuthbert windows and St Lawrence Church.
The project was made possible through a grant from The National Archives, emphasizing the importance of engaging the public with archival materials.
HazardOne’s murals have rejuvenated The Stonebow area, turning mundane utility boxes into vibrant showcases of York’s artistic heritage. Each mini mural highlights the meticulous craftsmanship of the Knowles firm, whose legacy is preserved in the extensive collection at Explore York Archives.
Celebrating York’s Stained-Glass Heritage
York’s stained-glass tradition is a pivotal part of its history, and the Outside the Box project pays homage to this. The Knowles collection, containing over 3,000 glass plate negatives and lantern slides, is a treasure trove of historical artistry. Dr. Julie-Ann Vickers, Head of Archives at Explore York Libraries & Archives, expressed her enthusiasm:
“This project is a fabulous way to get the archives out of the strongroom and into the community. Harriet’s stunning murals demonstrate how archives can be used to inspire public art, and in doing so enrich our city.”
Local artist Harriet Wood, known as HazardOne, has reimagined these historical designs using her signature free-hand graffiti techniques. Recognized by The Guardian as one of the top five female graffiti artists in the UK, HazardOne brings a contemporary twist to York’s traditional stained-glass motifs.
“Having grown up in York this project feels like a really special one to me! I remember going on school trips to the Minster and learning about stained glass, so to come back home to do a project based entirely around York’s amazing catalogue of stained glass has been a treat. Everyone has been so complimentary about them – I think a splash of color is what we could do with this summer!”
Harriet shared.
Enhancing York’s Urban Landscape
The Outside the Box project is part of a broader effort by York BID to enhance the city’s visual and cultural landscape. Carl Alsop, Operations Manager at York BID, highlighted the initiative’s impact:
“This has been a really exciting project to see come to life. The BID recently worked with partners to rejuvenate over 450 pieces of city centre infrastructure, and Outside the Box goes even further! Rather than just returning these exchange boxes to their original state, it’s made them new and exciting – something that makes you stop and admire them, while championing the unique history of this area.”
The project complements other mural installations around York, including those on Foss Walk, York Barbican, Coney Street, Queen Street, St Mary’s Square, and Back Swinegate. Each mural tells a unique story, contributing to a city-wide narrative that celebrates York’s rich historical tapestry.
A Collaborative Effort
The successful execution of Outside the Box is a testament to the power of collaboration. York Civic Trust is set to further honor the city’s stained-glass heritage by reinstating a prestigious blue plaque on No. 35 Stonegate, the former home and workshop of J.W. Knowles. Andrew Morrison, Chief Executive Officer at York Civic Trust, praised the project:
“The results of the Outside the Box project are fantastic. It is wonderful to see York’s heritage rejuvenating the city’s public realm in such a contemporary way. The project really shows the benefits of partnership working in the city.”
Community Engagement and Future Events
To foster community engagement, Explore York Libraries & Archives will host an Outside the Box event on August 17th as part of their Summer Family FUNdraiser. This event will provide children with the opportunity to design their own mini murals under the guidance of a local artist. Details on participation will be available on Explore’s Ticket Tailor site.
The Outside the Box project is a significant addition to the York BID Mural Trail, an ongoing effort to narrate York’s unique history through public art. Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the mural trail and share their photos and locations to be included on the map by emailing info@theyorkbid.com.
For more details on the York Mural Trail, visit York Mural Trail.
