Earth Day art urges Britain to think green ahead of the election

Artist Jamie Wardley created the painting for Earth Day to remind voters to consider the environment when casting their votes – Copyright AFP/File Benson Ibeabuchi

From the sky above the rolling hills of Hebden Bridge in northern England, a gigantic painting interrupts the peaceful green meadow with a call to action.

The 50 meter long work shows a smiling girl cradling the earth and next to it are the words: “Vote for the climate, vote for our future”.

Artist Jamie Wardley, who created the painting for Earth Day on Monday, hopes the message will remind voters to consider the environment when they cast their ballots in this year’s British general election.

Wardley, who used football field paint and spray machines to create the painting, said the election was an opportunity for voters to prioritize the environment, which is why the work was hopeful in tone.

“She is optimistic because this year is the British election and it is an opportunity for us to make a real difference to the future of our children,” he told AFP.

“Only governments can create policies and regulations that make a significant difference,” he added.

It took a team of ten artists three days to complete the painting and Wardley’s daughter was used as a model.

“He survived the rain a little bit, and he’ll probably be here for another week,” Wardley said.

“This isn’t going to change the world, but it could help a little. And if we all participate, hopefully we will make a difference.”

Earth Day is celebrated annually on April 22. The Day was first celebrated in 1970 and now includes a wide range of events in more than 193 countries, showing support for environmental protection.