In early 2025, I joined the London School of Muralism. As part of the course, I took part in a special project at HMP Downview, working alongside other students, artists, and a group of women in prison to create a large-scale mural.

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The project was led in partnership with Clean Break, and supported by the Arts Council of England and HMP Downview. Over several weeks, we held creative workshops where ideas were shared openly in a process called copylefting. This allowed everyone to contribute thoughts and imagery, while also carefully considering the sensitivities of the space and the people who would see the mural every day.

The final piece depicts a bold mountainous landscape, built with zig-zagging layers of colour and texture. It transforms the environment into something lighter and more hopeful, bringing creativity and expression into a space that can often feel heavy and restrictive.

For me, the experience was powerful. “What stood out to me about the mural-making process is the unique location. It being a prison meant that it would only be seen by a few who had no choice but to see it. This meant that the mural design needed careful consideration. I did feel that my ideas were valued during the process. The atmosphere during the creative sessions was very good. Everyone was fully engaged from early on and gave their positive input. Everyone was heard individually as well as collectively. The women in the prison openly mentioned that this was a wonderful and creative process that meant a lot to them. It felt respectful and very inclusive of everyone. I learned about the power of art through this process, how meaningful and impactful it can be. In this case, we painted a space that was heavily oppressive and it was made to feel light again.”

The women who took part also shared how much it meant to them:

  • “This has been the happiest week since I am here, I can’t say what I have learned but I am feeling less anxious.”

  • “It's emotional and uplifting, like a weight being taken off our shoulders.”

  • “The positive energy and colours will resonate with whoever walks into the space.”

This mural was officially unveiled on 4th June 2025 by Governor Amy Dixon. It stands as a testament to what collaboration, creativity, and shared expression can bring to even the most unexpected spaces.