An artist who developed his drawing skills in a park as a child has unveiled a large mural there. Robert Newbiggin, who began honing his artistic talents at Southport Botanic Gardens when he was eight, aimed to give back to the community with this project.
In the mural, Robert included elements that have since disappeared, noting that "people don't realize the things that are missing, like the conservatory." Now in his late 50s and a former boxer, he expressed his belief that the community should see the park as it once was, emphasizing its beauty.
The mural, which took two years to complete as Robert balanced it with other projects, was unveiled last week by Sefton Mayor June Burns and has received praise from park visitors. One resident remarked, "It's wonderful. To think it used to be a plain wall... and now it looks fantastic."
Robert's artwork can also be found throughout the town, including a 24-foot portrait of Captain Tom Moore on Houghton Street, honoring the veteran who raised millions for charity during the COVID-19 lockdown. Additionally, Robert painted a mural on his house, inspired by his visits to the Lake District. After a neighbor admired his work, he decided to paint her gable end, transforming it into a view of Lake Windermere.