“It’s not just about older heritage it’s about the heritage we’re making now.”

As part of the Look Up Halton – You Are Beautiful! campaign, we spoke with artist Colette Whittington, who is creating a vibrant window artwork for Runcorn Library that celebrates the unique details of Halton’s everyday life.

How did you get involved in the project?

“I saw the artist call-out from Cultivate and was keen to take part. While I’m not originally from Halton, my partner’s family is from Runcorn and I have some friends from Widnes. I spend a lot of time here and see how proud people are of their roots. I was thrilled to be chosen to help tell the stories that make Halton special.”

What inspires your work on the living gallery window?

“I always start with local research, usually at the library to get a feel for the area. But I’m drawn to the lesser-known landmarks: someone’s favourite hangout, the best chippy, or where they saw a great band. It’s about the heritage we’re creating now the popular culture that shapes our sense of place. Marie’s chippy in Widnes, for example, is as iconic to locals as St Luke’s Church. These contrasts help define identity.”

Any tips for those submitting photos or sketches?

“It’s not about perfect photography – it’s about seeing your surroundings differently. Good lighting helps, but the most important thing is personal connection. We recently did a walk with Hazlehurst Studios and photographer Lauren Quayle, and it was great to see people using everything from zoom lenses to mobile phones. All contributions are valid. It’s about memories, not technical skill.”

What are you most excited about in this project?

“Discovering insider stories and personal connections to places. The window design is already underway, but submissions will continue to shape the wider conversation. This project is about encouraging people to see their everyday spaces through a new lens literally and figuratively.”

What do you enjoy most about co-creating with the community?

“The surprises! Everyone brings unique perspectives and knowledge. On our recent walk, six very different people shared fascinating stories. That exchange is a gift. Community narratives have always been the heart of my artistic inspiration.”

If you were submitting a piece yourself, what would it be?

“Probably something about the markets, I love the energy and graphics inside them. They’re not architecturally grand, but they’re central to community life. I quite like those busy places where there’s just lots there’s lots going on and they are kind of there at the heart of a community. I just love the noise in the building of people inside really so it would be something to do with a market and the shop areas where people congregate. I’m also drawn to railings and lost buildings like the old art deco Scala Bingo Hall in the town centre. Even places that no longer exist can hold deep meaning.”

See the finished living gallery window in Runcorn Library’s shop window and don’t forget to keep sharing your Halton with us using #LookUpHalton #HaltonHighlights on social media.