A 50 meter mural designed and installed with the young people of Lambeth.
Film by Abi Sinclair
The Black Prince Estate Mural
Lambeth Council’s ‘Child Friendly Lambeth’ is an ambitious borough-wide partnership programme that sees participation from the local authority, schools, community and faith groups, voluntary and community sector organisations, local businesses, police, health providers and commissioners.
As part of the programme, The Matchbox were tasked with co-creating a vibrant interactive mural in the Black Prince Estate that explored the themes of Nature and Play. Together with the young participants, it was decided to explore the idea of imaginative play, and story-telling.
Workshops were held at Vauxhall Primary School, Octavia House (specialists in education and therapy for pupils who have suffered adverse childhood experiences) and The Black Prince Trust.
Community involvement was a vital part of the design process and decision making was given to the local young people (aged 18 and under). From the outcomes of the workshops, 3 designs were developed. Over 200 local young people then voted for their favourite design.
The final design, by Ellie Fryer, combined imagery inspired by British nature and folklore with African mythology, allowing children to creatively play with imagery that makes them feel included and let their imaginations run wild!
Snapshot
Sponsored by Lambeth Council’s Child Friendly Lambeth Programme, managed by Lambeth Council Housing Team, with support from Vauxhall Primary School, Octavia House, local TRAs and The Black Prince Trust.
Work generated for 8 artists.
60+ young residents (aged 5-18) took part in creative workshops, 200+ young people voted on the final design.
Participants recorded an improvement to their wellbeing and sense of belonging. The transformation of the playground has increased the amount of young people playing outside, aiding in their physical and mental health.
