Mural honoring Ed Sheeran commences in Ipswich

Construction has commenced on a new mural honoring musician Ed Sheeran and acknowledging his involvement with a football club. The street art firm MurWalls initiated the project on Sir Alf Ramsey Way, situated close to Ipswich Town’s Portman Road stadium. Marc Silver, MurWalls’ founder and chief executive officer, indicated that the mural is intended for the supporters and the local populace, with an anticipated completion by the beginning of the following week. The artwork will portray Sheeran as a child alongside his present-day self, both dressed in Ipswich Town uniforms. Mr Silver clarified that the concept originated from a conversation he had with Big Narstie, a friend and fellow artist of Sheeran, a few years prior. Mr Silver stated, “The amount of support that [Sheeran has] given the club, he’s definitely warranted it and in terms of a local living legend, he’s definitely that.” He further commented, “We just felt it was a good time, and obviously it coincided with Ipswich getting promoted to the Premier League, so there’s a real good vibe around the town.” The wall, provided by Ipswich Borough Council, is situated on the rear of the Ipswich Buses depot. Painting commenced towards the close of last week. The black base layer was applied by Nathan Jones, a local painter whose son, Noah, was a street artist recognized as Background Bob, originating from Dedham, Essex. Mr Silver added, “We felt it was really important to get Background Bob’s dad involved in this project because [on Wednesday it was] a year to the day when he sadly passed away.” He elaborated, “‘Background Bob’ is a bit of a term in the world of street art where you just help in the background and he’s done exactly that; he’s painted the whole background for us.” Mr Silver drew inspiration from an image of Sheeran as a child sporting an Ipswich Town shirt. He explained, “We wanted to show that he’s always been a fan… it [depicts] Ed of today in his current Ipswich shirt, which he’s actually sponsored, looking at himself as a young kid.” He continued, “It’s him looking at himself there with a smile on his face and the young Ed is kind of unaware of what he’s going to become and his love for the club.” Mr Silver expressed a desire for a reaction from Sheeran, yet underscored that the artwork’s primary purpose was for the “fans to enjoy.” “That’s what it’s all about and the community of Ipswich,” he concluded.