UK–Kuwait Mural Project Completed in Cardiff
Commissioned during last year's celebrations to mark a century and a quarter of UK-Kuwait official diplomatic relations, the mural - painted by British artist Lee Ferry, is the second and final part of a public art project that commenced in Kuwait last year. The first part, completed at the British Embassy in November, reflects elements of the UK and Kuwait's respective cultures, and shared postage and maritime history.
This new second part, situated in Trevithick Gardens—a popular green space within the Cardiff University campus— celebrates the cultural richness that has underpinned the UK–Kuwait partnership across more than 125 years. Featuring the Welsh dragon and daffodil alongside the Kuwaiti falcon and Arfaj flower, it skilfully interweaves traditional Kuwaiti Sadu and Celtic patterns - while a bee and butterfly reflect the garden's role as a space for biodiversity and student wellbeing.
Welcoming the mural's completion, Her Excellency Belinda Lewis, British Ambassador to the State of Kuwait, said:
'Joint celebrations to mark 125 years of official diplomatic relations served to highlight our two countries' unique partnership and to showcase the creativity and talent from the UK's four home nations. From the creation of this beautiful new mural at Wales' Cardiff University; to author / illustrator Clive McFarland's visit which offered a glimpse of Northern Ireland's vibrant literary scene; to the creation of a special "Partnership 125" tartan combining Scottish and Kuwaiti weaving materials, patterns, colours and techniques; to the launch of a horticultural exchange programme at England's Highgrove House and Gardens, celebrations have involved every corner of the UK.'
Professor Rudolf Allemann, Pro Vice-Chancellor for International at Cardiff University stated:
"This beautiful artwork at the heart of Trevithick Gardens celebrates 125 years of partnership with Kuwait. Cardiff University has a long tradition of welcoming students from Kuwait, and the mural reflects this by bringing together Kuwaiti and Celtic traditions and imagery. It symbolises the ambitions of this international partnership to create positive change and drive innovation that builds a better world for generations to come."
British artist and founder of Custom Artwerk, Lee Ferry added:
'It was an absolute honour to be asked to design and paint this mural. I sought to draw on my experiences visiting Kuwait last year, which allowed me to get a feel for the country, culture and its shared history with the UK. Using what I had learned about the partnership between our two countries and throwing Welsh culture in the mix, I eventually came up with a mural that brings together our respective national identities.
I've loved taking on this challenge and am thrilled that I got to learn something new while adding a splash of colour to brighten up everyday life. "
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