An array of fun posters designed to showcase the Cumbrian dialect and the personalities of the people of Maryport have gone on show in the town.
This artwork was inspired by the people of Maryport, their quirks, their humour, and their straight-talking attitude. Part of a project called Jus’ Git On Wid It, the creative programme was funded by the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The new designs spun out of the Jus’ Git On Wid It Audio Adventure, which took place in the town in Summer 2023. Local people had come together with the Made in Maryport cultural programme, assisted by the team from Ragged Edge Productions, to create a walking tour. It explored oral histories, local archive material and the unique character of Maryport, and those who live and work here.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, said:
“Those brilliant discussions were where the name for the Audio Adventure came from. Jus’ Git On Wid It encapsulated the resilience of the people throughout Maryport’s history, and the hard working, no nonsense character of the town.
“Lots of phrases were left over so we wanted to bring them to life with an impromptu exhibition. Yan Tan Tethera Creative took the words and connected them to well known cultural images and styles.
“We hope these posters raise a smile of recognition and celebrate Maryport’s many identities, and stories, and the language of this historic town.”
The new artwork is on display now at the temporary Maryport Maritime Museum at the junction of Senhouse Street and Curzon Street.
The Cumberland Council Maryport regeneration team would like to thank the following people for their involvement in the Jus’ Git On Wid It project: Stefan Escreet at Ragged Edge Productions, Karen Thompson at Yan Tan Tethera Creative, Stuart Eve, Christine Slater, Joanne Hill, Mitchell Hill, Jason Renwick, Barbara Markham, Angela Sibson, Amy Austin, David Malcolm and Maria Hardy-Sims.