Second-year BA (Hons) Graphic Design students from Arts University Bournemouth (AUB) have transformed vacant kiosks along Poole Quay with a series of colourful murals celebrating local heritage and seaside humour.
Working in collaboration with property owners, Forelle Estates, four AUB students turned four panels along the waterfront into a vibrant public art display, breathing fresh energy into the popular coastal location.
The project brief challenged students to capture the iconic spirit and quirks of Poole. The resulting artwork showcases playful and surreal takes on local life.
Becca Gritty’s mural features Poole’s famous Mediterranean gulls in a comical seaside narrative, and Ruby Phelps’ design brings a surreal touch to the Quay with paddleboarders gliding across a giant ice cream.
“I grew up locally and I went to Poole Quay on family day outs which are vivid childhood memories," says Ruby. "Being able to leave my own personal touch on the area in an artistic way makes me very happy.”
Evie Taylor swapped out human holidaymakers for local harbour seals enjoying a day out on the beach, while a collaboration between Rebecca Domijan-Bowler and Afra Sattar presented a striking postcard-inspired visual celebrating classic coastal imagery.
The installation was completed alongside professional master muralist Ricky Also from Paintshop Studio, who painted the central kiosk in his signature typographic style while offering hands-on guidance and professional insights to the emerging designers.
“This project has given our students a brilliant opportunity to showcase their creativity on a massive scale right in the heart of Poole," says Marten Sims, Senior Lecturer for BA (Hons) Graphic Design.
“The vacant kiosks were beginning to look a bit tired, so turning them into a fun, tongue-in-cheek celebration of local landmarks and wildlife has instantly brightened up the quay. Working alongside a seasoned artist like Ricky from Paintshop was an invaluable learning experience, and the final murals bring a fantastic, playful energy to the waterfront.”
The newly completed murals are now on public display along Poole Quay, offering locals and visitors alike a fresh, creative reason to explore the waterfront.
