What impact have CCC’s murals had on local communities?

Rose Hill
Sep 4
3 min read

At Co-Creative Connection, we believe that art has the power to bring people together, shift perceptions, and create positive change in the places we live. Our murals are not just decorative, they’re tools for connection, expression, and transformation. But what does that look like in real life?

Here are some of the ways our murals have made a difference to local communities:

Group of smiling people pose outdoors with umbrellas, holding letters spelling "UNITY." Bright, colourful backdrop creates a joyful atmosphere. — Populo Living & Newham Council, Carpenters Estate, Stratford 2023

🎨 Improved Well-Being

Taking part in a creative activity has been proven to boost mood, reduce stress, and improve confidence and our projects are no exception! For many participants, joining one of our mural projects is the first time they’ve picked up a paintbrush since school. But it's not just about the experience of painting it’s about being seen, heard, and valued!

Mohammad from our 2024 Finsbury Park Station Mural told us:

“I’ve never really felt like I belonged in this area, but now every time I walk past the station, I feel proud, I was part of that.”

In our 2023 Newham mural project, working with Deafroots (supporting deaf and hard of hearing participants) as well as SKILLS adults with learning difficulties, participants shared how the project gave them a safe space to express themselves, connect with others, and build confidence in a hearing-dominant world. Tina said:

“I really enjoyed it. I could feel my confidence building throughout the day. It’s been a long time since I’ve felt like that in a group.”

Mahmuda, a deaf participant from the same project reflected on how she felt during the workshops:

“I love the art, I feel alive when I am here”

Maudlyn reflected on how the project eased her anxiety:

“I think about coming here during the week so it’s given me something to look forward to. I’ve had a problem with anxiety and leaving the house so it was something to structure my week, and to socialise with a nice group. This is my third time coming here and I’m so much more relaxed.”

These murals become sources of pride and daily reminders that creativity lives here, and that everyone is welcome.

Two young men in black jackets paint at a table with blue cups. Red chairs and reflections in the background. Smiling, relaxed mood. — Finsbury Park Station & Arsenal F.C Islington, Hackney & Harringay 2023/2024

Rose, founder of CCC, and another woman talking and smiling in front of a colourful mural. One wears a blue coat and beanie, the other a black fur coat. Urban setting. — Populo Living & Newham Council, Carpenters Estate, Stratford 2023

🚫 Reduced Antisocial Behaviour

Murals that are made with the community, (not just for them) create a sense of ownership and respect. When local people have helped design and paint something, they look after it!!

In one of our projects with a local housing provider, staff noted that graffiti and antisocial behaviour in the mural area decreased significantly following installation. People who may have previously seen the wall as “blank” or neglected were now engaging with it, taking photos, and even bringing their families to see what they’d made.

The transformation of spaces often leads to a transformation in how those spaces are treated and valued.

A joyful group poses outside with a colourful mural which includes a "SELF-LOVE" rainbow sign. A red bus and brick buildings form the urban backdrop. — People Powered Places, Deafroots & SKILLS Stratford Old Town Hall Mural, Newham 2023

🤝 Stronger Community Bonds

At the heart of every CCC mural is connection. Our co-creation process is all about slowing down, listening, and building relationships. Whether it’s schoolchildren, elderly residents, local artists, or new neighbours everyone is invited to contribute.

In our 2024 Populo Living Art Trail project, volunteers, local participants, and paid artists came together to hand-paint two 34-metre murals, design a 25-square-metre interactive floor piece, and paint colourful planters and install play features. People told us how meaningful it was to do something side by side with their neighbours. Many of whom they’d never spoken to before. One participant, T.K, said:

“That day, I not only contributed to the artwork but also found a few wonderful friends.”

We often hear stories of new friendships forming, people exchanging numbers, or asking when the next project will be. These are the moments that highlight us art isn’t just about what goes on the wall, it’s about what happens around it.

Group celebrating in front of colourful mural with stars, train, and numbers. Kids hold a red ribbon; everyone is smiling with raised hands. — Idverde, Hammersmith & Fulham Council, Aspen Gardens Mural 2023

Real Impact, Lasting Change

Our murals may brighten up walls, but their true value lies in how they brighten up lives. They spark joy, shift narratives, and create ripple effects long after the paint has dried.

If you’re looking to create a project that brings people together, supports wellbeing, and delivers lasting community impact, we’d love to work with you.

Get in touch via the link below to find out how we can create something powerful together.