Harrow Arts Centre x WeTheSeeds

The process

WeTheSeeds (Public Arts Placemaking UK) collaborated closely with Harrow Arts Centre to design and deliver a bespoke hand-painted map mural and chimney wayfinding.

The process began with in-depth discussions to understand the visitor journey, identify key functional spaces, and ensure the mural would serve both as an engaging artwork and a practical wayfinding tool. Through concept development, sketches, and refinements, the final design took shape as a detailed illustrated map of the arts centre complex, highlighting performance areas, studios, and essential facilities to help visitors navigate the venue with ease.

By blending creativity with functionality, the mural not only enhances the visual character of the space but also improves accessibility and the overall visitor experience.

Pre-install mock-up map mural design below:

Growing the seeds

To bring the design to life, WeTheSeeds (Public Arts Placemaking UK) hand-painted the illustrated map mural across three large marine plywood panels, which were carefully mounted onto a brick wall within Harrow Arts Centre. To ensure durability and long-term protection, a clear Perspex layer was installed to the mural — similar to the protective coverings often used on Banksy artworks — safeguarding it against wear & vandalism, while maintaining its vibrant finish. Additional ornamental elements were introduced to complement the artwork, drawing inspiration from the venue’s existing brand colour palette and activities to create a cohesive and visually striking installation.

Alongside the mural, WeTheSeeds applied traditional signwriting techniques to hand-paint the Harrow Arts Centre logo onto the venue’s iconic chimney. Careful attention was given to typography, scale, and legibility to ensure the design remained true to the centre’s identity while being visible from a distance. Specialist scaffolding was erected to access the tall structure, allowing the logo to be executed with precision and craftsmanship.

Together, the hand-painted mural and chimney wayfinding design strengthen Harrow Arts Centre’s visual identity, visitor experiance, and transform the site into a more welcoming, navigable, and memorable destination for guests.

Images of the final mural can be found below: