It’s official – two colourful and eye-catching murals have been uncovered in Govan, Glasgow, kicking off the neighbourhood’s new chapter of transformation through community-led public art.
Located near the Clyde Tunnel in a key commuter area, the murals have been completed by internationally acclaimed artists Jay Kaes (UK/Spain) and Gera1 (Athens). What is more, the artists are the latest additions to Yardworks GRID, a growing open-air gallery in Glasgow’s Riverside Innovation District.
The murals were commissioned by SWG3 in partnership with Linthouse Housing Association and local community groups, as well as supported by the Glasgow Community and Place Fund and Creative Scotland. The works were chosen via an open call from a panel of local residents who selected the artworks, ensuring the art reflects the essence of the local community.
Jay Kaes’ mural pictures a red-haired woman, “layered with glitch-like effects that reflect complexity and resilience”.
The second mural is inspired by Eric Watt’s 1960 image Girl at Chalk Marked Wall, where artist Gera1 “reinterprets a fleeting childhood moment using bold colours and RGB-split effects”.
Speaking on his mural, Jay said: “It has been a privilege to listen to the voices of the Govan and Linthouse community, witnessing their deep respect for history and their commitment to future generations. This project has been a profound learning experience, and I am honoured to translate their spirit, stories, and shared vision into a mural that will stand as a tribute to their strength and unity.”
Gary Mackay, SWG3 Studio Director and Yardworks founder, said: “These new murals reflect what Yardworks GRID is all about: working closely with communities to create meaningful public art that speaks to local identity. As we head towards this year’s Yardworks Festival, it’s great to see the GRID continuing to grow—bringing people together, and turning overlooked spaces into vibrant murals.”
We believe public art can and should reflect the identities of those who live alongside it,” said Laura Frood, Creative Placemaking and Social Impact Lead at SWG3. “These murals are not only visually striking but deeply rooted in place, in story, and in the everyday resilience of this community.”