Last week, we are proud to celebrate the launch of Talking Tarn, a bold new public artwork connecting Barnsley Interchange to the Station bridge, a celebration of young people’s voices, wellbeing, and creativity. This project shines a light on young people’s voices, wellbeing, and access to support.
Created by artist Robyn Makings in partnership with Chilypep (Children and Young People’s Empowerment Project), Barnsley Civic, Northern, and the Penistone Line Partnership, the project transforms Barnsley Station into a space for connection, creativity, and community care. Each of the ten mural vignettes features QR codes linking directly to local support and services, helping young people and families easily find help and community activities.
The artwork has been co-created by young people from Chilypep’s BRV (Belonging, Resilience & Vocabulary) group and Young Commissioners, who explored identity, mental health, and local pride through creative workshops.As part of the Barnsley Station Adoption Programme, Chilypep and its young people proudly become the new adopters of Barnsley Station, ensuring it’s not just a place to travel through, but one that celebrates and supports young people every day.
We also want Talking Tarn to open up real conversations around mental health and wellbeing. So ahead of the launch, we’re asking:
What’s your conversation starter?
Our mural includes everyday greetings like “Eyup” and “Fancy a cuppa?” Small but powerful ways to connect. We’d love to hear your own conversation starter at the launch, something simple you’d use to open a chat or show care.
Come along to experience Talking Tarn and see how art, community, and young people’s voices come together to make a difference.
