Coming Soon: The Marvel From Marple
This summer, we’re excited to present The Marvel From Marple—the first major exhibition celebrating the life and work of Alan Boyson (ARCA, 1930–2018). Born in Marple, Boyson became one of Britain’s most distinctive post‑war public artists, known for his striking murals, mosaics, and ceramics that helped shape the look and feel of everyday spaces across the country.
The exhibition has been developed by artist and researcher Esther Johnson (MA RCA), whose long‑running project Ships in the Sky explores Boyson’s legacy and gathers stories, materials, and memories connected to his work—including those from her hometown of Hull.
Bringing together original pieces by Boyson, works he has inspired, archives and objects relating to his life and work, alongside video and photography by Johnson, The Marvel From Marple invites visitors to explore how public art becomes part of our shared identity—how we live with it, remember it, and build our communities around it.
More information about the exhibition and accompanying programme of Boyson inspired events & activities coming soon.
The Marvel From Marple features photography & video by artist Esther Johnson, exploring Alan Boyson's work. Marple born Artist and Graphic Designer Amrit Randhawa developed The Marvel from Marple branding and identity. Leigh Bird works with Esther Johnson on the 'Ships In The Sky' project, and The Marvel From Marple exhibition. 
Esther Johnson
Amrit Randhawa (Taxi Cab Industries)
Leigh Bird
