Features / Bristol Doors Open Day 2017
Establishing Bristol as the ‘colour capital’ of the UK
Arriving on a train at Bristol Temple Meads and seeing the colourful houses of Totterdown from afar, wandering down Montpelier’s Picton Street or soaking up the colourful row of houses above the Harbourside: colour is part of Bristol’s topography. It was great to see so many people come together over breakfast to discuss establishing the city as the ‘colour capital’ of the UK as part of Bristol Doors Open Days‘ wider programme.
Bristol Colour Capital Talk, in partnership with Stride Treglown and Bristol colour photographer Jess Siggers, AKA Instagram’s Porthjess, was a morning full of interesting talks and a showcase of the city’s bold choice of colour.
One of Montpelier’s most colourful homes
A survey conducted by Stride looked at the thoughts behind the city’s desire to use houses as a creative canvas. For many it was based around a want to stand out, but also to be part of something and engage with the liberalism and multiculturalism of the city. Others believed that it joyfully reflected the happy and cheerful nature of the city’s citizens.
is needed now More than ever
In terms of tourism, colourful houses play a significant role in showing off what our city has to offer. “It helps paint that bold alternative, creative and welcoming personality that Bristol boasts,” added Kathryn Davis, head of tourism at Destination Bristol.
A colourful view across Bristol Harbour
An interesting perspective was thrown into the discussion regarding the ageing population. With dementia on the rise, are we aware of the effects an ever-changing colourful capital could have on those that struggle with visual representation? This was definitely a thought for everyone to take away from the session.
So, how do we establish Bristol as the colour capital of the UK? The answer suggested was social media, and to share, share, share pictures of this colourful city with the world. Let’s see if we can complete Jess Siggers’ challenge – to see Bristol listed in Buzzfeed’s next list of the top 21 colourful cities of the world.
Bristol Doors Open Days’ programme of events continues until September 10 2017. For more information, visit: www.bristoldoorsopenday.org.uk
Read more: Open Doors Days 2017 to be biggest and boldest yet
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