Schools Come Together to Create Landmark Mural in Downpatrick
Local children are transforming Downpatrick Bus Station with a bold new mural, brought to life by Killough artist Kieron Black, as part of Translink’s wider When Walls Speak Welcome project.
Through a series of creative workshops, pupils from St Brigid’s Primary School and Downpatrick Primary School have explored what their town means to them and the power of public transport to connect them.
Gary Dunlop, Translink Project Manager, said: “What stands out most is the connection – between the pupils, between the schools and with the place itself.
“This is about young people shaping a space they use every day, and that’s incredibly powerful.”
At its core, the project reflects how public transport spaces can bring people together. By working across both schools, it has created space for shared ideas, new friendships, and real collaboration.
With pupils seeing their voices reflected in a station they use every day, and experiencing first-hand how transport connects people, place, and community.
Mrs Dolores Miller, Principal of St Brigid’s Primary School, said: “This project has given our pupils a real sense of pride, seeing their ideas come to life in a shared space for the whole community.
“Working alongside another local school has been particularly powerful, building connections, and encouraging understanding.
Alongside the shared mural at the bus station, each school will receive its own mural -bringing pupils’ ideas to life in their own space and creating a lasting mark of connection across the community.
Mr Daryn Maginnis, Vice Principal of Downpatrick Primary School, added: “Bringing the two schools together made this really special for our pupils.
“It’s helped build friendships and a shared sense of ownership, showing them that their voices matter and that they can play a role in shaping their community.”
Artist Kieron Black said: “This mural is really about the children’s voices. My role has been to listen and through paint translate their ideas into something that reflects Downpatrick as they see it.”
The mural forms part of Translink’s wider programme of community-led artwork, helping to create more welcoming, engaging spaces across the network and encouraging people to feel connected to the places they travel through.
Work on the murals in Downpatrick is due to commence shortly.
About Translink
Translink is Northern Ireland’s public transport provider, delivering bus and rail services that connect people, communities, and places across the region. Through its Better.Connected strategy, Translink is committed to enhancing the customer experience, supporting sustainable travel, and creating inclusive, accessible spaces that people feel proud to use.
About Downpatrick Bus Station
Downpatrick Bus Station is a key transport hub serving the local community and surrounding areas. Translink continues to invest in the station to improve the customer experience, enhance accessibility and create a more welcoming environment for passengers and visitors.
About Kieron Black
Kieron Black is an artist from Killough and a children’s book author, illustrator, and watercolourist. He has extensive experience delivering community-led creative projects, helping participants translate their ideas into meaningful public artworks that reflect local identity and shared experience.
About Downpatrick Primary School
Downpatrick Primary School is a co-educational school at the heart of the local community, committed to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment where pupils are encouraged to develop confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of belonging.
About St Brigid’s Primary School, Downpatrick
St Brigid’s Primary School is a welcoming and inclusive school that places a strong emphasis on community, respect and shared values. The school is committed to nurturing pupils’ creativity and encouraging them to engage positively with the world around them.
