Appley Seafront Regeneration
Local Marine Mural
A Collaborative project between artists Alice Malia and Laura Hathaway
The Location
The shelters are located along Appley Seafront in Ryde, Isle of Wight, a 0.93-mile-long beach renowned for its expansive sandy shores and unique tidal range. At low tide, the water recedes up to 0.75 miles, revealing gravel banks and sandbars that create lagoon-like areas teeming with important marine life, some of which are critically endangered. These shallow, sheltered waters, extending towards Seaview and the Solent, support a rich array of habitats and wildlife. Positioned along this special coastline, the shelters offer stunning views and serve as tranquil spots to relax while connecting with the unique natural environment.
The Shelters
The site, consisting of 14 shelters spanning nearly a mile along Appley Seafront, is currently in need of repair.
The photos illustrate the current state of the shelters, which are uninviting, dilapidated, and vandalised. Large areas of peeling paint expose the underlying concrete, and visible cracks run along the walls. Graffiti is scrawled across the surfaces. The walls are currently stark and, due to being painted white, easily show dirt and grime, amplifying the sense of neglect. Their current appearance feels at odds with the beautiful natural environment they are situated in, creating a visual disconnect rather than enhancing the unique and special seafront. This neglected state underscores the need for regeneration to transform these shelters into spaces that are both welcoming and usable to all.
Our project seeks to revitalise these neglected spaces, turning them into vibrant, welcoming spaces where people can gather, relax, and connect with their surroundings. By breathing new life into the shelters, we aim to encourage people to sit, rest, meet friends, enjoy picnics, to use the shelters as spaces to leave their towels while they swim and to seek shelter from the weather - all while enjoying the natural beauty of Appley Seafront.
Marine Species
In addition to improving their functionality, the project will introduce large-scale marine-themed murals, celebrating the unique and vital species that inhabit the seagrass beds, gravel banks and shell reefs of the area. Through creative imagery and accessible information, these shelters will become educational resources, encouraging awareness and appreciation for the local marine ecosystem.
Each bench within the shelters will feature a design inspired by a key marine species from the Appley area, with seagrass and seaweed visually weaving the narrative of each shelter together. The selection of species has been carefully curated in consultation with local marine biologist and underwater photographer Theo Vickers, ensuring scientific accuracy and a meaningful connection to the local environment.
A5 information boards will accompany each bench, providing details about the featured species. Each board will include a QR code that links to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust webpage, offering in-depth information and further insights into each species. Alongside this, a message will encourage the public to protect and conserve our unique and precious local environment.
By sharing the stories of key species that rely on this habitat to survive and thrive, we aim to inspire a sense of responsibility and encourage conservation efforts among both locals and visitors. This regeneration project is not just about enhancing physical spaces—it is about deepening the connection between people, creativity and the natural environment, ensuring these shelters become symbols of pride, community, and environmental stewardship.
Bench 1
Corkwing Wrasse
Bench 2
European Eel
Bench 3
Compass Jellyfish
Moon Jellyfish
Barrel Jellyfish
Bench 4
Long Snouted Seahorse
Bench 5 / 6 / 7
Sea Slugs / Nudibranch
Common Prawn
Mantis Shrimp
Bench 8
Spider Crab
Bench 9
Snake Peipefish
Greater Pipefish
Broad-nosed Pipefish
Bench 10
Mullet
Seabass
Bench 11
Stalked Jellyfish
Bench 12
Common Cuttlefish
Bench 13
Small-spotted Catshark
Bench 14
Undulate Ray
Common Stingray
Seagrass
Mermaids Tresses
Our Design Inspiration
Unveiled in September 2024, the underwater element of the Columbine Mural serves as the inspiration for our upcoming marine and environmental-themed mural, which will rejuvenate Appley Seafront.
The Columbine Mural, measuring 12 meters high and 65 meters long, celebrates the Isle of Wight’s unique heritage and recent environmental achievements, particularly the successful reintroduction of the White-tailed Eagle. The centerpiece of the mural, an 8-meter-tall painted eagle, is visible from across the River Medina. Below it, the artwork showcases the hidden seagrass meadows of the Solent—an essential underwater breeding habitat for key species such as fish and cuttlefish, which are vital prey for the eagle.
Extending across the rest of the building in tonal blues, the mural weaves a narrative of innovation over the past century, interlaced with depictions of the local natural habitat. It highlights the skill, craftsmanship, and invention that made East Cowes the birthplace of three groundbreaking flying machines: the Princess Seaplane, the Black Arrow Rocket, and the Hovercraft.
A skilled team of artists dedicated three months to transform the building’s façade into a vibrant historical and ecological masterpiece. This same group of artists has confirmed their participation in creating our new marine-themed mural, bringing their expertise and passion alongside new partners and connections to this exciting project.
The Design to Date
We have started initial sketches of some of the benches and species and have digitised certain elements. We're also bringing in imagery from our recent Columbine mural, like the seabass and cuttlefish. These early ideas will continue to evolve through more sketching, digital development, and colour testing as we shape the final mural.
To make sure each species is accurately represented, we will continue to consult with marine biologist and underwater photographer Theo Vickers.
The Artists
Alice Malia
With a background in theatre and large-scale scenic design, I transitioned into the world of murals, where I combine my passion for art with a deep connection to nature. Living and working on the Isle of Wight, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, my practice focuses on blending the urban environment with the natural world, highlighting the vital conservation efforts within this unique community.
I’ve been fortunate to work for Inkdwell Studio in San Francisco, a public art studio that celebrates the wonders of the natural world. This experience continues to inspire my work, which emphasizes the importance of living as custodians of our special landscapes. By creating murals that reflect the beauty and significance of our local environment, I aim to engage the public, foster awareness, and spark meaningful conversations about our shared responsibility to protect it.
Laura Hathaway
With 10 years of experience as an artist based on the Isle of Wight, I have developed a practice that blends my love for abstract expression with influences from the natural environment around me. My work is deeply tactile, often involving hands-on processes that allow me to connect physically with the materials I use. I’m passionate about creating art that not only reflects my personal journey but also invites others to explore their own creative expression. Rooted in co-production, my practice involves working alongside participants to explore self-expression through creative processes. I believe that art can be a powerful tool for connection and communication. Through creative guidance, I encourage people of all ages to use art as a means to express themselves. Whether through painting or collaborative projects, my aim is to empower individuals, encourage their creativity, and build a sense of belonging within the community.
The Marine Biologist and Underwater Photographer
Theo Vickers
Theo is an award-winning underwater photographer and marine biologist from the Isle of Wight, UK. Growing up Theo developed a fascination with marine natural history. Theo has a BSc. in marine biology from University of Portsmouth and is currently studying MSc. Marine Vertebrate Ecology and Conservation at University of Exeter in Falmouth, Cornwall.
Theo has a deep passion for the marine conservation of the Isle of Wight and Solent’s seas, and works to not only capture our seas on camera but actively engage the local community on the marine wildlife in our waters using imagery, exhibitions, social media andtalks, alongside collaborating with an array ofmarine and wildlife conservation organisations and projects!
The Team
Additional Activities
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Re:Box Exhibition
For the duration of the mural painting, we have been invited by local pop-up gallery space Re:Box to exhibit our sketches, mural designs, and project information. Located next to Ryde Town Council, the gallery will help direct people through Ryde to the mural site along Appley Beach.
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Folded Leaflet
We will be designing and printing a folded leaflet featuring the full digitised mural design in colour, accompanied by text on each species. On the reverse side, a simplified line drawing of the mural design will be provided for children to colour in. These leaflets will be available at the two cafés along the seafront, the RNLI, and Appley Tower. Additionally, a digital PDF version of the coloring mural will be made available for schools and the public to download, serving as an educational resource for school trips, forest schools, and visits to the area.
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Brevity
Brevity is set to invite 5 to 7 local writers to visit Appley Beach, observe the painting process, and use their experiences as inspiration for flash fiction. The writers will respond first to the artists painting and then to the completed murals and the marine species depicted. Selected works will be published in Brevity and shared on its website, weaving together visual and literary storytelling.
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Theo Vickers Rockpool Safari
As part of the opening of the completed mural, marine biologist and underwater photographer Theo Vickers—who has been advising on the marine environment and species depicted—will lead a free guided walk along Appley Beach and its tidal zones. This walk will give the public a chance to learn about the species featured in the mural within their natural habitat, deepening their understanding of the area’s unique ecosystem.
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Ryde Arts Mural Trail
Our mural will become part of the Ryde Arts Mural Trail, a collaborative initiative between Ryde Town Council and Community Murals. The trail showcases large-scale artworks positioned throughout the town, forming a two-mile walking route that concludes along the seafront. Our inclusion in this trail ensures that the mural not only enhances the Appley Seafront but also becomes part of a wider cultural experience.
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The Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival
Our mural will be painted during the Isle of Wight Biosphere Festival, a celebration of the island’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status. As part of this vibrant community and nature festival, our project aligns with the festival’s mission to connect people with the natural environment through art, education, and storytelling. The festival will be promoting our work along Appley Seafront, highlighting the mural’s role in celebrating local marine life and engaging the community in conservation efforts.
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Beach of Dreams
Our painting process will be listed on the Beach of Dreams website as part of their events, connecting our mural project to this nationwide celebration of the UK’s coastlines. Beach of Dreams, presented by Kinetika, is an open invitation for communities to explore, reflect on, and reimagine coastal landscapes through creative walks, art commissions, and local events. By joining this UK-wide programme, our mural will contribute to the national conversation on coastal heritage, culture, and environmental sustainability, inspiring collective action to protect and celebrate our shoreline.
Working Practice and Project Testimonials / Responses
Peta Rainford, Artswork’s placemaking creative producer for the Isle of Wight, Gosport and Havant. Facilitating the ‘Young Cultural Change Makers’ and ‘Supporting Young Minds’ programme.
“I love working with Laura. There is quality and integrity in everything she does. She has been a fantastic collaborator in the youth-led projects we have worked on, being genuinely willing to listen to young people and allow creative freedom, whilst remaining true to her own practice. With her gentle approach, she creates a safe space for creative expression which supports the wellbeing of all those involved”.
Caroline Underwood, Isle of Wight based artist and art tutor.
“I feel privileged to have been part of an amazing team of 8 painters, working over 4 months to bring Alice’s brilliant design to life on the historic Columbine Building. The mural celebrates local heritage, industry, and the reintroduction of the White Tailed Sea Eagle. I found it so interesting learning about all these things through the course of the project, and it was wonderful to see the positive reactions of local workers and residents, as they saw the enormous art work unfold. Huge thanks to Alice and everyone involved - it was such a pleasure to collaborate and it would be great to work with you again soon!”
Georgia Newman, Cultural Consultant and Creative Producer. Founder of the Isle of Wight Creave Network and Deputy Director for Creative Island – the development agency for culture on the Isle of Wight.
“Laura’s ability to draw inspiration from her surroundings, as seen in her recent large-scale community mural in Ryde, IW exemplifies her dedication to connecting with and reflecting local heritage. Beyond her own practice, Laura has made a profound impact through her extensive work with diverse communities - from her workshops for children and young adults to her creative sessions with rehabilitation centres and refugee projects.
It’s been wonderful to see her confidence grow, along with her artistic voice, which is always evolving. As a member of the Isle of Wight Creative Network, Laura is not only a talented artist but a generous contributor to our local creative ecosystem. I have no doubt her continued work will inspire many more to engage with art in new and meaningful ways”.
Rosie Fennell, Collumbine mural project intern, Isle of Wight fine artist.
"I definitely benefited from this experience as I met a handful of Island based artists. It was a great insight into the creative community and allowed space for conversations about funding and opportunities for people like me who are looking to become self-employed artists one day! The opportunity was so well organised, I felt so welcomed and like part of the team from day 1. I have since looked into funding for myself and also it has given me the confidence to take steps forward in my own career in terms of the near future."
The Isle of Wight Public.
"My friend who works there says she really likes it and it lifts her mood going to work every day."
"Wow. Just wow."
"I love the detail, the figures have so much character, look forward to seeing the end result."
"Beautiful, and see it from everywhere in our house."
"Absolutely stunning."
"We love this! Huge well done to you all."
"What a blessing, for all involved to be creating at scale together, and for the community that is receiving this mural."
"Such a brilliant and interesting project—it's been lovely to see it evolve!"