Students from Hele’s School in Plymouth have collaborated with local artist Ellie Johnson, known as “Mrs Murals,” to create a striking mural celebrating diversity and promoting messages of unity and respect.
The project builds upon previous efforts by Hele’s students, who, alongside the Plymouth and Devon Racial Equality Council and Plymouth Argyle Community Trust, explored themes of identity and belonging.
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Their discussions highlighted the need for a permanent symbol of inclusion within the school, leading to the concept of a large-scale mural. Funding from Plymouth City Council’s Community Recovery Fund has brought this vision to fruition.
The Hele’s School mural, designed by Mrs Murals in partnership with Creative & Performing Arts Teacher Emily Hunt and a group of students, incorporates recognizable local imagery with powerful universal themes.
Central to the mural is Smeaton’s Tower, its beams extending outward with symbols of love and unity. Clasped hands—set against a backdrop representing Plymouth’s skyline—underscore the core message, while the words “one love” and “unity” appear in multiple languages, reflecting the city’s diverse population.
Ellie Johnson, or “Mrs Murals,” is renowned for her community-centric artworks across Plymouth. In 2023, she collaborated with Kaya Gallery to raise funds for the RNLI by creating unique driftwood artworks depicting local lifeboats. She also transformed several subways in Chaddlewood, engaging local schools and environmental groups to create murals focusing on wildlife and environmental conservation.
>Additionally, Johnson was commissioned to produce artworks commemorating soldiers from the Falklands War, which were displayed at the Plymouth Guildhall. More recently, she enhanced the South West Peninsula Children’s Surgical Unit at Derriford Hospital with a vibrant mural of Smeaton’s Tower, aiming to provide a calming environment for patients.
Reflecting on the Hele’s School project, Johnson stated,
“I’m honoured and delighted to be given the chance to create this artwork, which depicts themes of unity, peace, and respect—values I hold dear and strive to incorporate into my daily life,”
“The creativity and passion that Hele’s students have put into producing the design is extremely impressive.”
Hele’s School Principal, Justine Mason, emphasized the importance of the project in the wake of recent challenges:
“After the challenges our city faced this past summer, it’s more important than ever for our community to come together—guided by the voices of our young people, who embody hope, inclusion, and the drive for positive change. This mural project offers Hele’s School students a powerful way to engage with issues of racism and discrimination while creating a lasting symbol of unity and hope for everyone.
The events of summer 2024 have only reinforced the urgent need for education, meaningful conversations, and the celebration of diverse backgrounds and beliefs.
At Hele’s, we are committed to empowering our students to think critically, act with compassion, and help shape a future where everyone feels valued and respected. The energy and passion our young people are bringing to this project is truly inspiring.
‘Voices of Unity’ is more than just a mural—it’s a statement of resilience, respect, and shared commitment to a better future. I am incredibly proud of Team Hele’s for leading this important work and creating a lasting legacy for our community.”
The mural will be officially unveiled on 1st May at a community event featuring performances, poetry, and cuisine from different cultures.
