Arts Lab Unveils ‘Save Our Future’ Mural On Skates Wall

Independent Arts’ Youth Group, Arts Lab, has unveiled its latest project - the Save Our Future mural - at Skates on Newport Quay.

This striking artwork is a testament to the creativity, commitment, and environmental consciousness of the young artists.

The mural’s design is both graphic and evocative, using a deliberately limited colour palette to capture the many shades of the sea while enhancing its visual impact.

It juxtaposes the ideal of a pristine, healthy ocean with a depiction of a polluted environment, highlighting the devastating effects of plastic pollution on marine life.

A key feature is the innovative wire fish sculptures—powerful symbols of the waste that plagues our oceans.

Crafted during dedicated wirework sessions, these sculptures contrast sharply with the vibrant, healthy ocean scene, reinforcing the urgent need to protect our environment.

Inspiration and Creative Process

Named by the young artists themselves, Save Our Future represents their passion for environmental change.

The project began with brainstorming sessions and mind maps, where the group chose to champion the cause of cleaner oceans. After exploring murals across Newport and voting on their mural’s form, they decided on a painting/sculpture hybrid.

Their sketches were digitised, projected onto plywood for scaling, and developed into a cohesive colour scheme.

The group also experimented with sculptures made from donated beach waste, inspired by the giant wire fish waste bin on Brighton Beach.

Voices from the Community

Evie Clarke, who runs the Arts Lab project, shared her enthusiasm:

"We’ve had such a fantastic time making our mural, and we’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received throughout. I’ve seen such a positive change in our brilliant young people during this project.

"It’s been wonderful to hear what they care about and to see them take responsibility for making a difference for all of our futures.

"They have shown great teamwork, creativity, and dedication! I am so proud to have been part of this project and to see the mural come to life.

"I’d also like to thank our amazing volunteer, Bella Cuoghi-Smith, who has been a fantastic support, a friendly face, and a listening ear to our
group."

Richard Quigley MP also praised the initiative, stating:

"Well done to Independent Arts’ youth group Arts Lab on their fantastic new mural.

"Projects like this make such a difference and bring communities together."

Young Artists who worked on the project were Billie, Jaime, Oliver, Evie D, Devon, Lula, Ellie, Elizabeth, Iona, Rebecca and Rosie P.

The project team included Jo Rigby, Kerry Weston, Ralph Ridler and Evie Clarke, in addition to volunteer Bella Cuoghi-Smith.