Marine inspired mural project unveiled at annual Ryde town meeting

Plans for an exciting new mural project along Appley Seafront were unveiled at Ryde’s annual town meeting by the Isle of Wight Council.

The project, entitled ‘Sheltered: Art, Ecology and Belonging on the Appley Coast’, sees the collaboration of Island artists Alice Malia and Laura Hathaway, with the project being joint funded by Ryde Town Council, the Isle of Wight Council and Arts Council England.

A total of 14 artworks will be painted along Appley seafront to revitalise its shelters, transforming them into a celebration of the diverse marine species found in the Appley area. Through creative imagery and accessible information, these shelters will become educational resources, encouraging awareness and appreciation for the local marine ecosystem.

The designs take inspiration from a familiar piece of work at another Island location — Alice Malia’s Sea Eagle mural on the Columbine Building in East Cowes. Completed in 2024, the 12x65 metre artwork included an underwater element, featuring seagrass meadows, fish and cuttlefish.

The selection of species has been carefully curated in consultation with local marine biologist and underwater photographer Theo Vickers, ensuring scientific accuracy and a meaningful connection to the local environment.

Alice Malia, artist and project co-lead, said: “It’s fantastic to have this opportunity to highlight these fascinating local marine species through art, and contribute to regeneration of this much loved public space."

Laura Hathaway, artist and project co-lead, said: “For me, this project is about making space for people to feel connected—to the coast, to the species that live here, and to each other. I want the murals to feel inviting and full of life, like they belong here.

“I’m really excited to see all of our ideas come to life and to transform these shelters into spaces that people want to sit in, enjoy, and spend time in—spaces that celebrate creativity, this special stretch of shoreline and the amazing marine life it supports.”

With a completion date set for July 2025, Islanders and visitors alike will be able to enjoy the vibrant addition to their beach days just in time for summer.