Context

The Mythic Coast project was conceived by Stephen Broadbent and forms part of a cultural vision and strategy document created by Broadbent studio in 2010, linked to the ongoing sea defence works.

Working with Wyre Borough Council Stephen Broadbent Artworks was awarded a Sea Change grant, which recognises schemes that have the potential to regenerate seaside towns through cultural and environmental enhancements.

The Sea Change grant funded three distinct projects: a bird observation tower at Rossall; the regeneration of Marine Hall Gardens in Fleetwood, which were both successfully completed in 2012; and also the Mythic Coast project.

The aim of the Mythic Coast has been to develop a narrative for the seafront from Cleveleys to Fleetwood that will draw people along the coastline and connect communities. This is being achieved through creating stories, illustrations and public artworks that will create a mythic story that can be enjoyed in print publications, through online engagement, community celebrations and festivals along the ‘People’s Promenade’- and beyond.

The Sea Swallow

The Sea Swallow story was written by children’s author Gareth Thompson. His story brings together the project’s aims: to reference landmarks across the Wyre; be appropriate for staging an outdoor performance; have contributions from the local community; include educational and geographical reference points; be adaptable for website and other multi-media follow-ups and open up themes for large-scale sculpture and public artworks.

The book is illustrated by Wyre Way Mythic Coastline competition winner Hannah Megee. Hannah’s creative flair saw her beat off stiff competition from over 100 artists in the nationwide search for the right illustrator to convey the The Sea Swallow’s themes in captivating imagery.

Hannah’s designs also provide the inspiration for a trail of Mythic Coast artworks, which include the Shipwreck Memorial, the Sea Swallow, the carved Ogre, Mary’s Shell, the Petrified Forest, and the Sea Swallow birds. In July 2011, copies of The Sea Swallow were given to 4,200 Wyre school children aged 7-11. The book is also available to buy online.