The artwork is part of a wider exhibition featuring pieces by pupils from The Mirfield Free Grammar and Castle Hall Academy, displayed as part of the ‘Routes to Roots’ art project.
One standout piece is a portrait of the legendary actor and Mirfield native Sir Patrick Stewart, created by Castle Hall Academy student Tendekayi Mukupe.
Who is Patrick Stewart?
Born in Mirfield on July 13, 1940, Sir Patrick attended Mirfield Secondary Modern School, now known as the Mirfield Free Grammar.
He achieved global fame as Captain Jean‑Luc Picard in Star Trek: The Next Generation and Professor Charles Xavier in the X‑Men film series.
Beyond screen fame, Sir Patrick earned two Olivier Awards, a Grammy, and numerous nominations across the Tony, Emmy, and Golden Globe Awards.
Knighted in 2010 for services to drama, he continues acting well into his eighties.
A painting of Patrick Stewart at Mirfield Station as part of the Routes to Roots programme (Image: David H Haigh)
Sir Patrick notified about artwork
Tendekayi said: “I decided to make the portrait of Patrick Stewart as I grew up watching his movies, and I am fascinated by his accomplishments throughout his career.
“I am in awe of his humble beginnings, and think he represents Mirfield in an iconic way.”
A painting of Patrick Stewart at Mirfield Station (Image: UGC)
Artist Chris Cyprus, who led and mentored the students throughout the project, said he had informed Sir Patrick of the tribute.
In a Facebook post, Mr Cyprus said: “A nice tribute to Sir Patrick Stewart on his 86th birthday today as I have installed a great painting by a local student at Mirfield railway station.
“Patrick was a former student of Mirfield (Free) Grammar.
“I’ve written to him about this so hopefully he might see it.”
Schoolchildren took part is submitting paintings to be displayed at train station along the Transpennine Route as part of the Routes to Roots programme (Image: David H Haigh)
Mirfield third station in the programme
The exhibition is the third instalment of ‘Routes to Roots: a platform for art’.
It was funded through the Transpennine Route Upgrade’s (TRU) First and Last Mile scheme.
Mirfield is the third station to take part in the programme, following Greenfield and Ashton-under-Lyne.
Mr Cyprus said: “The students have seized the opportunity to bring their art into a public space in their hometown – not only did they meet the challenge, they exceeded it, putting in their own time to see the work through to completion.
“They should be proud that their art will now uplift the daily commute for passengers and visitors, creating a real sense of place at the station.”
Katy Grand, senior sponsor for the TRU, said the project has given young people a valuable chance to showcase their pride in their community.