Brand new mural
Discover Ealing’s latest mural! What used to be a 42m wall of grey concrete is now the ReActon mural, a vibrant visual story of recycling, repair and refill. All of the activities incorporated into the design are supported by the Borough’s circular economy hub – ReActon.
UWL student design
A competition was set for University of West London students to create a design that would explain ReActon to anyone passing the site of the old Acton reuse and recycling centre. The design had to clearly tell a story of all the circular economy activities that ReActon supports. Examples of these activities include: the pre-loved uniform hub, book and toy swaps, bike repair, clothing repair and compost giveaways.
Over a dozen students took on the challenge. A number of fabulous designs were submitted that the judging panel had to decide between. In the end, Gabija, Souad and Andrada were awarded the prize both the quality of their design and professional presentation.
Local primary schools join the design process
An exciting part of the winning design was to invite local pupils to submit their designs for toys they would like to see in a toy swap. Carter, Kaja, Mary, Mia and Zosia from Our Lady of the Visitation Primary, all submitted their brilliant toy swap ideas. These designs were then incorporated into the UWL mural design and now on display at the ReActon mural.
Professional support
To ensure the mural will last for many years to come, London mural experts, Paint Your Planet won the contract to support the students. It required real expertise to convert a graphic design file into a 42x2m mural. Paint Your Planet used recycled paint to create the base coat. They then used VR to translate the design from a computer file to sketches on the wall.
Nurturing future artists
The ReActon mural was a brilliant experience for everyone involved. Souad Hakim, commented,
“This project gave me valuable real life experience of working with a client, collaborating with a team, managing feedback and understanding what it takes to deliver a public artwork. Painting alongside professional artists helped me build my confidence and develop new practical skills that I couldn’t have learned in a classroom alone.”
These young designers have a bright future ahead, it will be fascinating to see how they develop their skills and share their talent with London (and beyond).
Check the ReActon mural out
Check out this public artwork by visiting ReActon (Stirling Road W3 8DJ). ReActon is open every week, for opening times please visit:
- ReActon Hub – ActforEaling Climate Action Hub
- http://www.instagram.com/ealingrecycles
- www.facebook.com/ealingrecycling
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