Region's Largest Mural Unveiled on Campus

This week, the region’s largest mural was completed at the University of Suffolk’s waterfront campus as part of Ipswich’s first urban art festival.

The huge mural on the James Hehir Building, which measures 576 square metres, was created by artist ATMA and is entitled ‘From Ipswich with Love’.

It is one of four large murals created as part of the Wild Walls Festival which is a celebration of creative urban art.

In addition to the murals, the festival has also included street art, an art fair, exhibitions, workshops and cinema screenings, and launched a new urban art trail through the town.   

Artist ATMA, who created the mural said: “The mural, called ‘From Ipswich with Love’, is like a love letter from Ipswich to the world.

"I had the incredible opportunity to do workshops with Ipswich residents – the mural design on the James Hehir Building was born from these workshops. The mural showcases the beautiful spirit of Ipswich: creative, loving, open, forward thinking.   

 “Also, considering Ipswich as one of the most ancient towns in the UK, and at the opening to the sea, the mural will include details and references that I hope people will enjoy discovering.

"The focus of my work is to create an uplifting narrative anchored in its location, which resonates with its local community. And I hope the mural will become a timeless universal message of kindness, positivity, and vibrancy.”   

The University of Suffolk is one of the Wild Walls Festival supporters and in addition to providing space for the mural, also hosted the free art fair and VR graffiti exhibition at the start of September.  

Nigel Ball, Head of Arts at the University of Suffolk, said: “It is exciting that a contemporary street art festival of this kind has been hosted in Ipswich, celebrating not only local talent but also bringing in internationally renowned artists to the region.

"The University is proud to support Wild Walls, not only by providing a space for a mural that will become a positive and colourful addition to the Waterfront, but also to welcome everyone to come and enjoy the art market and graffiti exhibition.”     

As part of the Wild Walls Festival, a Street Art Trial has been created highlighting all the street art locations across Ipswich. Download the map online here.