Portsmouth Combined Court lends wall to celebrate local heroes and artists
A project celebrating local Portsmouth community heroes has had a helping hand from Portsmouth Combined Court, where a giant mural has been painted on an outside wall of the court building.
- Portsmouth Combined Court part of community art project celebrating local heroes
- mural of inspirational Portsmouth woman, Marie Costa, painted on external court wall
The mural has been painted by renowned artist Neequaye Dreph Dsane and celebrates local community leader Marie Costa. Marie is a key part of the cultural fabric of Portsmouth, having worked as a nurse, teacher, carer, businesswoman, university governor and community volunteer since the 1960s. She has been described as ‘inspirational’ and ‘a do-er’ and has worked tirelessly for decades to promote intercultural understanding.
Eve Miller, HMCTS Regional Manager says:
I’m delighted we could support such an inspirational local project. The court is a key part of any community and the criminal justice system also relies on people committed to their civil duty – whether as jurors, volunteer magistrates or in other volunteer and staff roles. So Marie’s story of selfless commitment to her community really chimed with us and we’re honoured to host her mural as part of this city-wide celebration.
The project, called We Shine Portsmouth, was organised by local arts group Portsmouth Creates and supported by Arts Council England thanks to National Lottery investment.
Portsmouth Creates says:
We can’t wait for We Shine Portsmouth. Our mission is to bring community and culture together in the city so this cultural event will be the perfect way to showcase Portsmouth in a whole new light! We’re delighted that Portsmouth Combined Court were able to provide such a great site for one of our murals and take part in this fantastic community event.