Bringing Art to Life: Launching the Alton Estate Mural – A Project Rooted in Growth

Our journey began with a warm welcome from Daniel, the CEO of EEA, who gave us an inspiring overview of the project, its purpose, and how we would contribute. From that moment, it was clear this scheme would be a hands-on experience, allowing us to shape every stage of the project ourselves.

Over 10 weeks, I had the opportunity to take part in the Roehampton Trainee Producers Scheme with Emergency Exit Arts, working as part of a team of eight to plan, programme, and deliver a community arts project from scratch. Our mission was to create a vibrant new mural on the Alton Estate, alongside an engaging launch event – all centred around the theme of Growth.

From the very beginning, we were involved in every stage of the project. As a team, we explored what “Growth” meant to us and the community – development, change, connection, and creativity – and used this to shape both the mural and the event. Early on, we divided into two focus groups: one focused on mural design and the other on planning the launch event. Once the design direction was finalised, we came back together, ensuring the mural and event were fully aligned in vision and message.

A key part of the process was engaging the community directly. We ran workshops with local residents – from children to adults – gathering ideas and creative input that helped shape the mural’s final design. This made the artwork feel truly rooted in the community, reflecting shared stories and perspectives rather than being created in isolation.

Throughout the project, we used a range of digital and project delivery tools to stay organised and aligned. From timeline planning and deadline tracking to task management and shared documents, we learned how essential structure is when delivering a large-scale creative project. Strong communication was at the heart of everything – we held regular check-ins, adapted to challenges, and supported each other to stay on track, with everyone taking ownership of their roles, stepping up when needed and working collaboratively to problem-solve along the way. With guidance from our mentor Claire MacNeill, who ensured we stayed focused and on schedule and facilitated all the sessions, we were able to maintain a clear direction throughout. We were also supported by Shanika Warren and Isabel Shortt from EEA, who helped coordinate permissions from the council, manage event logistics, and contribute to the final polishing of the event.

While the mural itself was painted in the weeks leading up to the launch, the event was where everything truly came together. On the day, Emergency Exit Arts staff supported us as we delivered a lively and engaging celebration. The event featured live music, performers, interactive stalls, tote bag painting, crafts, badge-making, face painting, and a range of food vendors. The atmosphere reflected our theme of Growth – people connecting, trying new things, and engaging creatively with their environment.

Being part of the event on the day felt both exciting and rewarding. There was a real sense of responsibility in making sure everything ran smoothly, but also a sense of pride in seeing people enjoy something we had built from the ground up. Watching the space fill with energy – families laughing, children getting creative, and people engaging with the mural – made all the planning feel worthwhile. It was one of those moments where you step back briefly and realise: we made this happen.

This experience taught me a lot about what it really means to produce an event. It’s not just about planning – it’s about being adaptable, staying calm under pressure, and thinking ahead while also being present in the moment. I learned how important it is to communicate clearly, support your team, and take initiative when challenges arise. It also showed me the value of creating inclusive, welcoming spaces where people feel comfortable to participate and connect.

Throughout the scheme, I gained hands-on experience in budgeting, marketing, licensing, and event management, while also developing skills in teamwork, communication, and accessibility planning. More than anything, the experience reflected personal growth – building confidence, taking responsibility, and learning how to turn an idea into a meaningful outcome.

Standing at the launch, seeing people interact with the mural and enjoy the event, I felt proud of what we achieved as a team. This project showed me that growth isn’t just a theme – it’s something you experience through collaboration, creativity, and stepping outside your comfort zone.

Sushmitha Srivatsava, Trainee Producer