A world-renowned illusion artist has returned to Bedford this month to refresh his 3D pavement art, based on a local urban myth, entitled The Vault.
The piece by Julian Beever was originally unveiled in May 2021, but was damaged during the roadworks on Bedford High Street.
Funded by Historic England, and Bedford BID, plus supported by SEMLEP and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project is part of the High Street Heritage Action Zones (HSHAZ) programme.
His return visit has been paid for by the High Street contractors.
Legend has it that there is hidden treasure – a bank vault – still buried underneath the site at the end of Bedford High Street. The 3D artwork will depict past Bedford high street workers and shoppers who used the bank in their daily life.
Julian created the extraordinary piece of 3D art, which allows visitors and the people of Bedford to take a virtual look underneath the riverside bank site and discover what lies beneath.
The bank provided support and expertise to the family businesses of Bedford. Through these relationships, its role became synonymous with that of caretaker of the town.
Councillor Henry Vann, portfolio holder for town centres and planning, said: “The Vault was really popular with residents when it was originally installed and the artwork tells one of the mysterious, possible apocryphal, hidden stories of Bedford High Street, which talks of a secret bank vault buried away underground on this exact spot.
“It is great to be able to welcome Julian Beever back to the town to restore the mural to its original state following the conclusion of the High Street works (and in the improving weather) for all to enjoy.”
BCA director, Elaine Midgley, said: “We’re so pleased to welcome Julian back to Bedford to touch up this fantastic mural, originally produced in May 2021, now that the contractors have finished the high street works that obscured it previously.
“Julian hopes to have his work finished by Sunday 26 February so if people would like to pop down and say hello and watch him work – they would be most welcome.”
Updated 27.2.23 at 13:39 to include a quote from Cllr Henry Vann
