People are welling up over this awesome new photo mosaic created using 5,000 pictures submitted by music fans of their most memorable moments at Motorpoint Arena

The mosaic was unveiled today (22) at a special event attended by contributors

It’s not a tear, I’ve got something in my eye – honest.

A huge photo mosaic made entirely from pictures submitted by fans and local people capturing their most memorable moments was unveiled today (22) at Motorpoint Arena

It has been permanently installed at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham after being commissioned to mark the venue’s 25th anniversary. 

The large-scale artwork in the arena foyer features over 5,000 fan images – from first gigs and family nights out to childhood memories and once-in-a-lifetime experiences – submitted by the community as part of the People’s Picture Project. Over 12 months, fans from across the UK and worldwide contributed images to create the 6.5-metre artwork, which will be permanently displayed in the foyer. 

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Contributors looking at the final mosaic during the unveiling

The mosaic was unveiled on today (22) at a special event attended by contributors.

Created in collaboration with British artist Helen Marshall, known for large-scale participatory projects including The People’s Moon, the project invited people to submit photos and stories reflecting their personal connection to the venue over the past 25 years. 

Martin Ingham, CEO of Motorpoint Arena Nottingham, said: “When you look closely at this mosaic, you don’t just see photographs – you see real lives, memories and moments that have shaped this venue.

“Every image represents a genuine connection to this place, and bringing all those stories together creates something truly meaningful. We’re proud to give these shared memories a permanent home, and to celebrate the ongoing story of the Motorpoint Arena for years to come.

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Created in collaboration with British artist Helen Marshall, known for large-scale participatory projects including The People’s Moon, the project invited people to submit photos and stories reflecting their personal connection to the venue over the past 25 years. 

Christina Avraam from Arnold, Nottingham, whose image features in the mosaic, said: “I can’t believe a picture I took with my phone so many years ago became part of something like this.

“It feels incredibly special to know my memory is now woven into the story of the venue.

“The Motorpoint Arena isn’t just a building – it’s part of Nottingham’s heartbeat and a place where I’ve made so many incredible memories!” 

A digital version allows visitors to explore individual images and stories online: Now and Then Mosaic – The People’s Picture 

The People’s Picture Project is part of the arena’s year-long 25th anniversary celebrations and marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

This summer, the venue will launch its first-ever immersive art exhibitions, Beyond Van Gogh and Beyond Monet, while a brand-new entranceway redesign will transform the customer experience.

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