Take a deep breath at latest mural
Artwork highlights mental health
Paisley’s latest wall mural, which raises awareness of mental health issues, has been completed to bring a spot of colour to a gable end.
The public artwork, in Lawn Street, was created by Paisley artist Duncan Wilson, in partnership with arts collective Made in the Mill, which is based at Mile End Mill and is supported by the NHS.
It features the words ‘And Breathe’ and its aim is to get people walking past to stop, think about things, take a deep breathe and move on.
Duncan, who completed the mural in just 10 days, said: “I always enjoy working outside on murals. It’s a great opportunity to talk to passers-by and local businesses about the project and to hear their positive feedback about how the mural’s developing.
“I hope it also gives a voice to all the participants at Made in the Mill who took part in creating the design and that it conveys the message they wanted to share with Paisley.”
It is hoped that the mural — which is part of the Paisley First Walls Series — will inspire conversation about mental health.
Sarah Grant, creative arts coordinator with the NHS Network Service, is involved with Made in the Mill.
She said: “The NHS and Made in the Mill are delighted with the mural. It looks amazing.
“It conveys a great message about recovery, which came directly from the group and promotes positive mental health and wellbeing.
“We hope that everyone will connect with the message of ‘getting your head above the clouds’ and taking time out to relax and breathe.
“Made in the Mill promotes creativity in recovery and the members of the group have spent several weeks working with Duncan, to develop their ideas.
“The group has loved the opportunity to be involved in such a public piece of art and is so pleased with the outcome and the wonderful job that Duncan has done.”
The Paisley First Walls Series has been spreading some fun and colour around the town, as well as highlighting various aspects of local history.
Mandi Cowan, from Made in the Mill, added: “Stop and take a breath ... it just helps anybody with everyday life.”
Business regeneration group Paisley First has been delighted with the positive feedback to murals, which include a gigantic kingfisher bird mural in Johnston Street.
Paisley First vice chairman David Wallace said: “I am sure this latest mural will prove yet another great talking point for the people of Paisley and visitors to the town.
“Each mural has its own distinct theme and it’s great to see our community groups tackling the big issues and sending out such a strong message.”
The public art is part-funded with a grant from Renfrewshire’s Culture, Heritage and Events Fund.