A bold new mural has been unveiled at the roundabout at the bottom of Priory Road on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, transforming a previously overlooked space into a vibrant and welcoming gateway that celebrates music, creativity, and community. The artwork, commissioned by Bournemouth Coastal BID using BCP Council Town Centres Improvement Fund support, was designed and painted by local creatives, Paintshop Studio.
The transformation began with a deep clean of the large blockwork wall by local commercial cleaning company Cleaner by Miles, who used elevated platforms to access the highest sections. Once prepared, the mural design was created, approved by local businesses and councillors, and brought to life by Paintshop Studio under the creative direction of lead artist Ricky Also.
The artwork is a homage to Bournemouth’s rich musical heritage as one of the South Coast’s leading live music destinations. It features lyrical nods to iconic artists who have performed in the town, including The Beatles, David Bowie, and Kings of Leon, with phrases like “Let It Be” woven into the design.
Ricky Also, Creative Director at Paintshop Studio said:
“This mural is a tribute to the artists who’ve shaped Bournemouth’s musical heritage. We wanted the artwork to feel uplifting and familiar, something people could emotionally connect with, whether they’re walking past on their daily commute, visiting the beach, or arriving for a show.”
This initiative is part of a broader programme by Bournemouth Coastal BID to revitalise public spaces across the town. By enhancing the prominent junction of Exeter Road, Priory Road, and the main thoroughfare to both the East and West of Bournemouth Pier, the mural helps to create a more attractive and inspiring environment for residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.
Steve Turner, Director of Venues at BH Live, commented:
“As one of the South Coast’s premier entertainment and event venues, we’re proud to see Bournemouth’s rich musical legacy brought to life through this vibrant new mural. This artwork beautifully reflects the spirit of creativity, culture, and community that we celebrate at the BIC. It’s an inspiring welcome for visitors and audiences arriving in Bournemouth.”
As a business-led partnership, Bournemouth Coastal BID works to promote and improve the town’s key coastal trading areas, including Boscombe, Pokesdown, Southbourne, Westbourne, East Cliff, West Cliff, and the seafront. Investments in placemaking projects like this mural support the BID’s mission to boost footfall, energise public spaces, and position Bournemouth as a thriving, creative destination.
Fiona McArthur, Bournemouth Coastal BID Manager, said:
“This is more than a mural, it’s a colourful gateway. We’ve collaborated closely with our hoteliers, local councillors, and BH Live to deliver something that not only celebrates Bournemouth’s cultural heritage but also enhances the visitor experience in this key part of town.”
The artwork installation is the first in a planned series of public art commissions by Bournemouth Coastal BID, with future murals in development for key sites including The Triangle and along the Lower Gardens cycle path.
Fiona went on to say:
“These projects are part of our wider mission to re-energise the town centre, celebrate Bournemouth’s unique identity, and create a stronger sense of pride and place.” “While there’s still more to do, this mural shows how we can take meaningful steps together to build a more vibrant, welcoming and connected Bournemouth.”
Paintshop Studio, based in Bournemouth, is a multidisciplinary creative studio specialising in large-scale public art, placemaking, and space transformation. Their portfolio includes the acclaimed Upside Gallery in the Lower Gardens and the Poole Gosse mural for Poole BID.
To explore more of Paintshop Studio’s work, visit www.paintshopstudio.com or follow the mural’s journey on Instagram at @paintshopstudio.
For more information about Bournemouth Coastal BID projects and campaigns, visit www.coastalbid.co.uk or follow them on Instagram at @coastalbid.
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About BH Live
Champions of community engagement, health and wellness across Dorset, Hampshire, and London
BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, is a leading operator of sports and leisure centres, theatres, and event venues. Our vision is to create sustainable and inspiring opportunities, deliver great experiences for our communities, and improve health and well-being.
With a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement, BH Live continues to enhance the quality of people’s lives, health and wellbeing in the communities it serves.
BH Live was established in 2010. Local authority partners include BCP Council, Portsmouth City Council and Croydon Council.
We are at the heart of the UK’s growing social economy. Together with our partners we are helping to change lives and make a positive impact in the community.
For more visit bhlive.org.uk.
Get social with us:
LinkedIn – BH Live
Facebook – @SocialEnterpriseBHLive
Instagram @bhliveuk
About Bournemouth International Centre
Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) is operated by the registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
Opened in 1984 the venue is set in the heart of Bournemouth, with panoramic views across the bay. It is the south coast’s premier conference, exhibition, entertainment, and hospitality venue, with licensed capacity for up to 10,000 visitors. Four main halls and a variety of smaller meeting and hospitality areas can be scaled to host events such as multi-hall conferences, exhibitions, meetings, music concerts, dance and comedy performances.
- Buy tickets online at bic.co.uk
- Buy tickets by phone 0300 500 0595
- In person from box offices at Bournemouth International Centre
For call charges, opening times and more visit bic.co.uk.
Get social with us:
X @BHLIVE_UK | Facebook & Instagram @BournemouthInternationalCentre
About Action Bournemouth Coastal BID
Bournemouth Coastal BID is dedicated to enhancing the visitor experience in their coastal towns surrounding Bournemouth. Through a range of initiatives, events, and partnerships, Bournemouth Coastal BID aims to support local businesses and create vibrant, engaging experiences for residents and visitors alike.