Alfreton's history and traders inspire new indoor market murals
Giant butterfly wings, local landmarks and a ‘traders tree’ have brought a splash of colour to Alfreton Indoor Market through a new art project commissioned by Amber Valley Borough Council.
Giant butterfly wings, local landmarks and a ‘traders tree’ have brought a splash of colour to Alfreton Indoor Market through a new art project commissioned by Amber Valley Borough Council.
Local artist Pictoria has transformed six walls inside the market into a connected artwork celebrating the town and its independent traders.
Inspired by spring, the murals weave together familiar places, including Alfreton’s war memorial, with details reflecting the creativity and character of the market.
There’s plenty to discover along the way. Visitors can hunt for butterflies hidden within the artwork or pose for a photo in front of the large butterfly wings near the entrance.
Market traders helped shape the designs, sharing ideas with Pictoria about what they wanted to see. Their contributions inspired the dedicated ‘traders tree’, with other touches throughout the murals reflecting the businesses that call the market home.
Councillor Matt Allwood, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Planning, Regeneration & Estates, said: “Alfreton Indoor Market is a fantastic place to visit, and we’re lucky to have such wonderful independent traders. They bring so much character to the market and make everyone feel welcome.
“Pictoria has done a brilliant job of capturing that spirit. The artwork celebrates Alfreton and is a lovely tribute to the traders who make the market what it is.
“If you haven’t visited for a while, come along and take a look. There’s plenty to discover, both on the walls and at the stalls.”
Working closely with the traders helped Pictoria create artwork that reflects the people behind the stalls.
Pictoria said: “It’s been a real joy and an honour to create artwork in the market, working with the traders to make something that feels right for them. They bring so much skill and character to the place, and I hope the artwork adds a little colour to the experience of shopping there.”
For the traders, the artwork is already getting customers talking.
J & S Repair said: “The artwork has been a real talking point with customers and attracted a lot of attention. It’s made the market more colourful and welcoming, and the feedback has been great.”
The Wee Deli Counter added: “We love trading here, and it’s great to see investment in the market. The artwork has added something special.”
The project forms part of the council’s wider regeneration work in Alfreton, alongside the planned future development of nearby Severn Square.
Funding came from the UK Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund, allocated to Amber Valley Borough Council through the East Midlands Combined County Authority.
The murals are free to view during market opening hours: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, from 8am to 4pm. Visitors are invited to explore all six and browse the independent stalls along the way.
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