Chelsea students paint the town red (and other colours)

As part of the Artists of Morley – and in partnership with Kensington and Chelsea Arts Week – a handful of Art students were asked to design a poster, a festival T-shirt, volunteer, as well as paint a 13m long mural in Bard Road W10.

On 22 June 2023, six students – Jac, Clare, Bafrin, Adrianna, Robyn and Francesca – embarked on the mural challenge; each painting a design connected to their studio practice. After 6 days the mural was complete, which ultimately now showcases a vibrant outdoor exhibition.

Lara Ritosa-Roberts, Senior Lecturer in Creative Discovery said: “We envisaged that the design would echo a magazine, or a catalogue spread – have a title and a final ‘page’ incorporating featured student artworks.

“The title page was created by pasting and collaging paper-based print making experiments that Level 4 Foundation in Art & Design and HE Fine Art students donated to the project. Subsequent panels are all painted using spray-paint or acrylic emulsion and then varnished so the mural lasts over (and after!) the summer.”

“Throughout the mural painting project, the students have shown boundless creativity and enthusiasm together with strong collaborative, organisational and problem-solving skills which can all be seen in the mural itself. We truly hope our mural brings daily joy to the passers-by heading to and from the nearby offices, galleries, eateries and flats.  

“Thank you to Vestalia Chilton & KCAW London for including us in their festival, to Sarah McWatters – Morley’s Work Experience and Placement Officer – for her tireless engagement to make this partnership happen, and to Head of Art Maggie Hall for her support!”