I started this image in the Swindon Paintfest – during a live painting session in the Wyvern theatre. Living in the Swindon area for nearly 20 years now, it’s been interesting to see the locality change and develop. The impetus for this was to try to encapsulate a little of Swindon’s history in a fun and engaging way. Being a sucker for a good story and reading up on a bit of local history, my ‘Homage to Swindon’ came about
So, what’s it all about?! Billie (The pig) comes from the theory that the name ‘Swindon’ comes from ‘Swine – Dun’ (“Pig on the Hill” if you like) the tiny little town that Swindon was for centuries. Billie is dressed in a blue and white striped gown (based on the proposed flag of Swindon) with an orange cape – Swindon council’s colour. Behind Billie is the Wyvern – a great mythical creature that represents the ancient kingdom of Wessex that encompassed the area that Swindon sits in (also the name of the theatre in the town). To Billie’s right is the Robin, nickname of the football and the speedway team (amongst others). Underneath the Robin is a white horse of the hillside – Wiltshire and the surrounding areas has several of these. Coming through the canal tunnel is Isambard (Isambarge?!) Kingdon Brunel, the famous engineer who brought the railway to Swindon in the 19th century and changed the area (and in my opinion, the world!). Riding on the Great Western Railway train (thanks to Isambard) is the Great Bustard – the bird that sits on top of the country badge of Wiltshire.
I’ve already identified a few things I’ve missed – Daniel Gooch, Brunel and “THE Sandwich”! – that’s a story for another day, a ‘Wildcat’ (Ice Hokey)… let me know what else I could add!