A new mural on Portland Square, Sutton, depicting Sutton’s past and future, has been completed.

It was created in 32 hours, using spray paint, by internationally-known artist Zabou, a French street artist based in London who travels the world painting her photo-realist murals.

The mural, named Look At The Stars by Zabou, features the Walton Stocking Factory in the background, representing Sutton’s long history of hosiery manufacturing.

Freya, the girl in the foreground, is a junior member of Mansfield and Sutton Astronomical Society, shown viewing the stars at Sherwood Observatory — representing Sutton’s bright future.

Located on the side of the building occupied by Kim’s Diner, the project is being delivered as part of the Welcome Back Fund. The mural is a new attraction for the town centre and part of Ashfield District Council’s commitment to delivering town centre improvements.

Coun Jason Zadrozny, council leader, said: “The impact of cultural experiences can’t be underestimated. Good art starts conversations, inspires, and encourages creativity in everyone. The Sutton mural has been doing exactly that.

“We have had hundreds of responses to the mural, both online and in person. We were approached by several residents whilst Zabou was painting it and they all had fantastic comments to share with us.”

Coun Matt Relf, cabinet member for regeneration, added: “We are so proud of this mural, which represents Ashfield’s past and our bright future. We have a long history of being connected to science and technology with the famous links to Ada Lovelace and Sherwood Observatory in Sutton.

“Sherwood Observatory will be benefiting from Town’s Funding to transform it into a state-of-the-art educational facility.

“Freya, the girl in the mural, is a young astrologer with a passion for space, who will inspire another generation of young people, just as Ada has.”

Zabou said: “It was a pleasure to paint my first mural of 2022 in Sutton and meet the local community. I hope that my work will brighten up people’s day, maybe inspire them, and hopefully shine a light on both the future and the past of the town.”

Freya added: “I was so excited to be asked to be part of the mural a few months ago. We had a photoshoot with Zabou, which was fun, and then we got to watch it being painted.

“I’m really proud to be a part of it, I love being a member of Sherwood Observatory and I think the mural makes the town centre look amazing! I hope it stays there for a long time.”