The Transformative Power of Murals in Schools

The traditional view of schools often revolves around academic excellence, standardised testing, and textbooks. While these aspects are undoubtedly crucial, there's an often overlooked element that can significantly enhance the learning environment: murals. Murals are large-scale, visually captivating artworks that have the power to transform the atmosphere within a school. In this article, Mint + Mabel will explore why schools can benefit from having murals on their walls.

Inspiring Creativity and Imagination

Murals are a feast for the eyes, and they inspire creativity and imagination among students. When students are surrounded by vibrant, thought-provoking artwork, it can stimulate their own artistic inclinations. The imagery used in murals can encourage students to think outside the box, fostering a sense of innovation and artistic expression. This mural was created for a reception classroom and the ‘I wonder..’ is a topic explored throughout the year with the pupils.

'I wonder' mural painted in a reception classroom

Enhancing the Learning Environment

The physical environment in which students learn plays a crucial role in their educational experience. Dull, uninspiring walls can have a negative impact on students' motivation and engagement. In contrast, murals can transform a bland classroom or hallway into an inviting, dynamic space. This, in turn, can boost students' enthusiasm for learning.

A pupil making use of the cosy new reading nook

Promoting Cultural Awareness

Murals often incorporate cultural, historical, or social themes, providing an opportunity for schools to promote cultural awareness and inclusivity. These artworks can serve as educational tools, sparking conversations about different cultures, histories, and social issues. Murals can help create a more inclusive and diverse learning environment.

A mural of landmarks across the globe

Fostering a Sense of Belonging

When students participate in the creation of murals, they develop a sense of ownership and pride in their school. Collaborative mural projects can bring together students, teachers, and the community, instilling a sense of belonging and unity. It sends a message that everyone plays a part in shaping the school's identity and atmosphere. We can work with students to create compositions of shapes to inspire a mural design for us to paint. These can be in the form of art workshops for each key stage.

Getting the children involved in layouts of shapes

Providing Visual Learning Aids

Murals can serve as visual aids, making complex concepts more accessible. For example, a mural depicting the solar system can aid in science lessons, while the alphabet and numbers can help younger children. Visual learning aids can help students better understand and retain information as well as creating a focal point for the teacher.

Numbers 1 - 30 and the alphabet with accompanying letter sounds

Boosting Mental Well-being

Aesthetically pleasing environments have been linked to improved mental well-being. Murals can create a positive and welcoming atmosphere, reducing stress and anxiety among students and staff. The presence of art can also promote relaxation and creativity, which are vital for effective learning and engagement.

'Once upon a time' mural in a reading nook

Encouraging Outdoor Learning

Schools aren't limited to indoor spaces. Outdoor areas such as courtyards and playgrounds can also benefit from murals. These outdoor murals can turn otherwise mundane spaces into vibrant learning environments. Students can engage in outdoor lessons, art projects, or simply find inspiration in these spaces.

Exterior wall mural

Incorporating murals into schools is a creative and effective way to enhance the educational experience. They inspire creativity, promote cultural awareness, and create a sense of belonging. Murals also enhance the overall learning environment, boost mental well-being, and serve as valuable visual learning aids. As schools continue to evolve, it's essential to recognise the value of art in education and the transformative power of murals on school walls.

If you know of a school that would love to discuss mural ideas please contact Hattie and Erin via email hello@mintandmabel.com or fill in our contact form.