Shawn Sharpe Paints 'CANvas' Mural for Earth Day

To celebrate Earth Day 2025, Preston City Council have partnered with Every Can Counts and local artist Shawn Sharpe to create a thought-provoking mural made from 700 recycled drink cans.

Shawn live-painted the #EveryCanCounts 'CANvas' with a bespoke Earth Day design during Preston's Egg Rolling event, which saw thousands of locals gather in Avenham Park on Easter Monday. The mural aimed to raise awareness of the infinite recyclability of aluminum, and the importance of recycling drink cans both at home and on-the-go.

The artwork displays two hands holding a smiling cartoon Earth character, alongside the words 'Every Action Counts'. The message aims to inspire people to take individual action, no matter how small it may seem, as even small changes can make a big difference to the environment.

Shawn Sharpe, responsible for many of Preston's iconic murals in the city centre, explained how his first live-painting experience went:

"It has been interesting because I don't get nervous when I paint...but because it is my first live painting in Preston, I didn't really know what the response from the public was going to be like. [They have been] really engaging, humbling, and it's nice to see that a lot of people know what's happening within the City."

Earth Day is an annual global event dedicated to raising awareness about important environmental issues and the need to protect natural resources for future generations.

Mark Taylor, Interim Director of Environment and Property, said:

"Earth Day is such an important time to remind people that we only have one planet, and we should all be making individual efforts to take care of it. Artwork, particularly from artists that understand our community, can be such a powerful tool to raise awareness of these important events. We are very pleased to have partnered with Shawn on this project, he has done a fantastic job."

A team of Every Can Counts ambassadors were also in attendnnce, collecting used drink cans in their recycling backpacks and engaging with members of the public to spread their message about the benefits of recycling. Canzee the mascot, made from over 300 recycled drink cans, made a noisy appearance to show the public just how fun drink can recycling can be.

Chris Latham-Warde, Programme Manager for Every Can Counts, said:

"It was great to make an appearance at the popular Preston Egg Roll with our 'CANvas' installation designed by the brilliant Shawn Sharpe. The event was not only a great way to celebrate Easter but also to mark Earth Day, which is all about encouraging worldwide action to help benefit the environment and preserve the planet.

"Aluminium, including drink cans and foil wrapper from Easter eggs, is infinitely recyclable so it's important to dispose of it properly this Eastertime and beyond!"

Every Can Counts is a not-for-profit communications programme working to inspire, encourage and empower people to recycle their empty drink cans. The programme is funded through a partnership between European and UK drink can manufacturers, the aluminium recycling industry and drink brands.

The CANvas is now on display at Lancashire County Council's new education experience, Eco Town, in Farington. Visits must be booked in advance, and you can find further information about how to book by visiting Lancashire County Council - Eco Town education walkway

You can recycle your cans on-the-go in the city centre at the following locations:

• Market Street
• Earl Street
• Friargate
• Ribblesdale Place

Further information can be found at Recycling on-the-go bins in Preston City Centre