Street murals have become quite commonplace in Glasgow over the last few years, something we at Taylor and Fraser like and encourage. When used as a giant canvas, tired buildings can be rejuvenated, adding a bit of colour for the public to enjoy and appreciate.

The significant works of art you see around the City are part of a Glasgow City Council initiative aimed at improving the image of buildings, gable ends and other sites across Glasgow city centre. These works of art are designed to enhance the area’s appearance and contribute to the visitor experience in Glasgow, while also supporting local regeneration.

The initiative also provides artists with the opportunity to bring their ideas to life and provide a platform for their talent to be showcased, while reinforcing the growing reputation of Glasgow’s arts community and contributing to the City’s image as a cultural centre. Artists can apply to the City Centre Mural Art Fund for financial assistance for mural projects.

Our attention was drawn to street and mural art because we have recently experienced the high level of creativity of a local artist at one of our City centre sites. Our project at the SAMH building in the Merchant City was the recipient of creative input from Ashley Rowson, a Glasgow-based contemporary artist who practices in acrylic on canvas, model installations, and street art.​​​ Shortly after erecting our hoarding around the building, and before we had the chance to paint it, he had added his clever and thought-provoking work. We were careful to paint around it, hoping to enhance its appearance.

There is also a significant mural very close to the SAMH site in Candleriggs. Indeed, there are many to be seen when we go between the SAMH site and the current major project at the Pipe Factory at the entrance to the world-famous Barras Market, including one of the City’s favourite sons, Billy Connolly!

With so many impressive works of art, many on a massive scale, it’s hardly surprising that Glasgow City Council has established a Glasgow City Centre Mural Trail to guide Glaswegians and visitors around the City and take in these creative and colourful additions to the City’s landscape.

You can visit the official City Centre Mural Trail website here.