Why it matters: The 2x2-metre permanent mural, unveiled on Thursday, 13 November, immortalises local people and organisations whose hard work has made a difference to the lives of those around them, creating a lasting tribute to community spirit in Ipswich.
The details: Created by artist Lily Hammond, the artwork sits in the theatre's stairwell and depicts heroes nominated by local residents earlier this year during The Big Afternoon, the theatre's annual free micro festival.
Community heroes featured include Joyce Jarrett for her voluntary work with Suffolk Family Carers, police dog Aman who was stabbed protecting his handler, Romeo Mustata who founded Ipswich Romanian Community, and the late Sarah Austin, a beloved member of Synergy Cosplay.
The mural also celebrates Sharon Lockhart, owner of Geek Retreat Ipswich which provides a safe community hub, The Ipswich Outreach bus representing founder Ian Walters' homelessness charity, and Clem Turner, chair of the Caribbean & African Health Support Forum.
Other featured heroes include Kate Lankester for her work with Suffolk Pride, Aspire Black Suffolk directors Ellisha Soanes, Franstine Jones and Tonia Wilson, Funmi Akinriboya who founded BME Suffolk, and the New Wolsey Theatre's volunteer ushers.
The bigger picture: An Adinkra symbol, Nkonsonkonson, meaning 'community links' represents all other nominated heroes, including Anjali Sule, Cad Taylor, Esme Ransom, Georgeta Nita, Jill Birkby, Jon Bennett, Karl Hutchinson, Keith Deller, Lorna Stygall, Dr Maithlee, Mandy Rawlings, Mary Binks, Millie the assistance dog, Natasha Cobb, Nina Grunberg, Olga Hopper, Philip Carter-Goodyear, Prachi Katdare, Dr Pravin Desai and Stephen Skeet.
The symbol was inspired by the theatre's work with local organisation ACYCLE.
What they're saying: Tony Casement, Head of Creative Communities at New Wolsey Theatre, said: "We are really proud to have created a piece of artwork with our local community that celebrates the incredible difference people make to each other's lives through everyday acts of kindness."
What's next: Following the unveiling, theatre staff and community heroes held a get-together to discuss what the people of Ipswich need from their community. The theatre was filled with community heroes and their friends and family at the event.
For context: The project forms part of Creative Communities, the New Wolsey Theatre's programme of support, performances and projects for young people, local communities and the education sector.
The bottom line: The permanent mural stands as a testament to the power of community spirit in Ipswich, honouring those whose everyday kindness creates meaningful change in people's lives.
