by Rebecca Hannant
A Hull artist has created a mural in memory of a Hedon teenager who took his own life.
Spray-paint artist Maniuko has painted the mural on the front of the Ruben’s Voice wellbeing hub on Draper’s Lane field.
Katy Smith established Ruben’s Voice in memory of her son, Ruben Ferrol, who died by suicide aged 18 in April 2021. The organisation runs regular events, such as workshops and games, to encourage conversations about mental health and provides spaces for people to meet.
Katy approached Maniuko to explore the possibility of hosting spray-painting workshops. Not only did he agree to the workshops, but he also offered to create a mural on the hub.
Katy said: “I saw a Facebook post with some of his designs and was blown away by his talent. I originally asked if he could run some workshops to teach our community how to paint their designs on to the cabin, and he offered to paint Ruben’s portrait too.”
Maniuko said: “Initially I was approached by Katy, who created Ruben’s Voice, to help with August’s festival and use my skills to show kids how to spray-paint. Then I came up with the idea of painting Ruben’s portrait.
“I thought it would be a nice tribute to paint his portrait, so people would remember him, which can also bring more awareness.
“I hope that painting his portrait will create a positive vibe around the hub and will unite the local community even more.”
