A talented street artist has returned to Cliftonville Lido to create his latest artwork.
Paddy Watts, who created the 20ft mural of environmentalist David Attenborough at the Lido site in 2021, has now completed his latest offering – grumpy old men Statler and Waldorf and the mad drummer Animal from The Muppets!
Paddy started painting graffiti letters after being introduced to two books when he was 13 years old. Spraycan Art and Subway Art are well-known street art books.
The Medway based artist says on his Instagram page: “After painting the Lido a few years ago, I vowed to return. I saw this spot and knew it would be cool for the Muppets.”
Paddy, who has the moniker pad303 has created art at locations across the UK and overseas. They often have an environmental message – and the latest work at the Lido is no different.
Paddy said: “You will notice that humans leave the rubbish on the beach, humans make the mess… generally tourists in high season.
“The rubbish and waste in the sea is disgusting, whereas the animals just live there and leave not a trace.
“So maybe the people who leave the trash on the beach need to “behave like the animal”…. Hence the Muppet on the drums.
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“Now many people walk by and say ”oh look there’s Animal” and can’t remember the names of the old boys sitting in the balcony (from childhood TV )..commenting on the show the humans play….rather fitting I thought…
“Although their names are Waldorf and Statler…thumbs up or down!… Animal is better behaved than the average human.
“I painted twice in this location, both environmental elements and messages. Not everyone will get this one, unless a big sign goes up… “behave like the animals and leave no rubbish you muppet!”
“Anyway, as the summer arrives there is more need and call for Rise Up Clean Up Margate volunteer group for the beach.
“This is something which needs a voice.
“ I am from Kent and love it. Why can’t we have more bins on the beach, there are never enough in height of summer.
“It certainly gives the average lazy fool the excuse to leave their mess on the sand instead of either taking it with them or finding other means to dispose of it.”
This is exactly how I imagine George Nokes and Andrew look.
A rarity-an actual artist with talent in Thanet.