I Spy The Historic Quarter

Are you ready to mooch around Middlesbrough? You’re in the right place! Developed by artist Aphra O’Connor, I Spy The Historic Quarter features architectural elements from buildings within a short walk from Middlesbrough Railway Station. 

So whether you have time between trains, or a fantastical thirst for local knowledge, this trail will allow you to explore parts of the town you may never have seen before. 

Follow the letters on the map and don’t forget to look up. So much of the amazing detail on these buildings is hidden above our heads.

About artist Aphra O’Connor and The Mooching Project

“During this project I mooched, or explored areas around Middlesbrough train station, and for the first time fully interacted with the space. Without having to rush away I had precious time to observe the streets and the buildings that have been there for generations.

My father Charles, and his side of the family are from Grove Hill Middlesbrough, and although I have spent time here in the town I haven’t had the opportunity to stop and look up.

For this project I have explored the streets around the station, capturing and isolating elements of the architecture, and aspects of the area that are often overlooked. During my ‘Mooch’ I discovered some extraordinary details, and this I Spy trail shares them with you.

The designs are collaged drawings taken from some of my favourite observations, and each drawing is identified on the trail to show you where I found them.” – Aphra O’Connor

Aphra O’Connor is a British artist who navigates her neurodiversity through her practice spanning  drawing, ceramics and sculpture. Aphra allows audiences into her daily life through her installations, reflecting on how she interacts with the world after her diagnosis of ADHD. She graduated from the Royal College of Art with a Masters degree in Ceramics and Glass in 2019 and from Wimbledon College of Art in 2014 with a BA in Sculpture.

Find out more about Aphra O’Connor here www.aphraoconnor.co.uk