Guildford Borough Council and Ukrainian residents bring new life to Friary Passage
Working alongside Guildford Borough Council and professional street artist Roo, Ukrainian residents and two Ukrainian schools in Guildford have helped bring a vibrant new mural to life at Friary Passage.
The artwork, at the riverside end of the passage, was developed through a series of community workshops.
The mural forms part of a wider public art project led by Experience Guildford to revitalise the town centre, creating a brighter, more welcoming route between the town centre and riverside.
Guildford Borough Council has supported the resettlement of more than 700 Ukrainians, and this project reflects the wonderful contribution they continue to make to life in the borough. The design celebrates the warm welcome they have received and brings together a range of perspectives and experiences.
Work began during Refugee Week, highlighting the importance of community, inclusion and support for those rebuilding their lives in Guildford.
Roo, professional street artist, said:
"As part of the Friary Passage Street Art Project, we have been honoured to develop a community mural inspired by drawings produced by a talented group of Ukrainian creatives. The participants not only contributed the ideas behind the artwork but also played an active role in painting the mural itself.
"This project offers Guildford residents and visitors a unique opportunity to gain insight into the lives, memories and experiences of people from Ukraine who now call the borough home. The mural celebrates the country's beautiful landscapes and countryside, while also reflecting personal interests, traditional pastimes and the participants' connection to their homeland.
"Through this collaborative artwork, we celebrate creativity and the shared stories that bring communities together across borders."
Cllr Carla Morson, Lead Councillor for Community at Guildford Borough Council, said:
"Seeing these ideas and experiences come together, reflecting both where people have come from and the lives they are building here, is a powerful step towards feeling connected, supported and part of our community.
"This project is about much more than improving a space, it's about bringing people together, celebrating creativity and recognising the contribution of Ukrainian residents in Guildford.
"It shows our commitment to being an inclusive borough where everyone feels they belong."
Amanda Masters, CEO at Experience Guildford Business Improvement District, said:
"I was thrilled when I learned there was an opportunity to connect with Guildford's Ukrainian community through this project. The finished piece shows how crucial art is to represent a shared experience and connections to a homeland. It is stunning!"
About the Friary Passage art project
The Friary Passage art project is a regeneration initiative led by Experience Guildford to transform a previously underused and unwelcoming route into a vibrant, safe and attractive connection between Guildford town centre and the riverside. Delivered in partnership with Guildford Borough Council, Surrey County Council, local artists and members of Guildford's Ukrainian community, the project is designed to tackle issues including graffiti, poor lighting and anti-social behaviour while boosting footfall and supporting nearby businesses. The murals are being curated by local street artist Roo, with community workshops helping to shape a unique, inclusive design. Funding has been secured primarily through Surrey County Council's Your Fund Surrey programme, supported by Councillor Catherine Houston, alongside additional funding from Guildford Borough Council for the Ukrainian community element.
Find out more about the Friary Passage art project, read Experience Guildford's press release.