A beautiful new mural, designed by pupils and created in collaboration with the University of Hull and local artist Emma Garness, has been unveiled at Wybers Wood Academy, marking the culmination of an innovative partnership as part of the University’s "Water Data for People" project.
This watery artwork, now proudly displayed at the school, was developed through a series of workshops and creative sessions that brought together children, researchers, teachers and an experienced artist to explore themes of water, sustainability, and the local environment.
Led by the University of Hull, the Water Data for People project uses creative approaches to help communities understand and engage with how water data can shape our future. Water Data for People builds on the DIG Surface Water Resilience Project - an initiative of Northeast Lincolnshire Council, City of Doncaster Council, Anglian Water, and Yorkshire Water. Both DIG and Water Data for People are funded by Defra as part of the £200 million Flood and Coastal Innovation Programmes which is managed by the Environment Agency.
The mural reflects the ideas and experiences of the pupils, who learned how data about rainfall, flooding, and water usage connects to everyday life and their community. These insights were transformed into visual storytelling under the expert guidance of Emma Garness, whose work often highlights environmental themes and community identity.
Dr Edward Brookes, Research Fellow at the University of Hull, said: “This mural is a wonderful example of how science and art can come together to inspire and educate.
Emma Garness, mural artist for the project, added: "This has been a fantastic opportunity to connect science and art, it has been so good to see how much energy and creativity the pupils brought to every stage of producing this mural not just for themselves but for their School."
Teresa Rouse, Head of Wybers Wood Academy also commented: “Our pupils have absolutely loved being part of this project – from splashing around with ideas to seeing them come to life on the wall! The mural is not just a piece of art; it’s a burst of colour, creativity, and curiosity that reflects everything they’ve learned.
The mural now serves as a lasting testament to the power of partnership between academia, schools, artists, and the community, making complex environmental topics accessible, engaging - and beautiful.
This work was funded through the UK government’s Flood and Coastal Resilience Innovation Programme (FCRIP), which is part of the government’s National Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management Strategy for England. FCRIP is funded by Defra and managed by the Environment Agency. The programmes will drive innovation in flood and coastal resilience and adaptation to a changing climate.