Reimagining Co-Creation in Public Art
What does it mean to truly co-create public art? At the recent Splash of Colour event in Roehampton, we explored this question head-on, transforming a 15+ metre stretch into a vivid mural made with, not just for, the community.
Commission and Concept
Commissioned by Richmond and Wandsworth Councils in collaboration with Project Centre Ltd, I was invited lead a team of artists to co-design and co-facilitate a large-scale mural as part of a wider day of community-led placemaking. Together with an exceptional team of artists we set out to create a process that prioritised openness, play, and gentle structure.
The Power of an Open Brief
Rather than presenting a predetermined design, we began with a question: “What makes Alton, Alton?” The aim was to spark conversation and creative expression, not dictate outcomes. Residents were invited to respond through paint, stencils, shapes, and stories—adding meaning as they saw it.
Planning for Freedom and Flow
Time was tight: 15+ metres of mural, 14 boards, 4 hours—and a completely unknown number of participants. To keep things cohesive without stifling creativity, I created a curated toolkit: pre-painted abstract shapes, architectural stencils inspired by the Alton Estate, and repeated motifs designed to visually tie the boards together. This structure helped unify the mural without overshadowing the spontaneity of the day.
Setting the Scene and Holding the Space
We offered a set of guiding principles—no text, no religious imagery, no obscenity—and framed the boards with visual anchors that crossed panel to panel. These prompts encouraged participants to build on each other’s work while preserving space for individual voices. Whether they painted parks, skylines, pigeons, or imagined futures, every contribution added something vital.
A Celebration of Collective Creativity
More than 100 community members participated—children, elders, longtime locals and newcomers. The joy, laughter, and shared sense of purpose were palpable. Alongside the mural, the day featured sculpture workshops, wayfinding exercises, and community conversations—all helping to shape a more inclusive vision for Alton’s public spaces.
Lasting Impact Beyond the Paint
The mural may be temporary, but the spirit of collaboration it represents is not. It stands as a joyful testament to the power of co-creation and community-led design.
Acknowledgements
Heartfelt thanks to the incredible artist team, the organisers, and every resident who picked up a brush. Special thanks to Project Centre Ltd, Richmond and Wandsworth Councils, and everyone behind the scenes who made this day happen.