Creating a Landmark: The Wasl Port Views Community Mural Project
 

Art Painting Lab was commissioned by leading Dubai real estate developer Wasl Properties to transform their Port Views residential development into a vibrant, living art gallery. The goal was to create more than just decoration; it was to forge a landmark destination that would foster community spirit, celebrate local heritage, and become an iconic backdrop for residents and visitors in the Al Mina area of Dubai.

How did we approach this community focused mural and how did we design it??  Our approach was rooted in creating a deep connection between the art and the community it serves. This project is a testament to how public art can instill a powerful sense of identity and togetherness in a neighborhood.
 

The Artistic Vision: A Fusion of Seaside Heritage and Emirati Culture

The creative direction for the Wasl Port Views murals was a dynamic fusion of two core themes inspired by its location and the rich history of the UAE:

1. Seaside Elements: Located near Port Rashid, the development has a strong connection to the sea. Our designs incorporated nautical and marine motifs, celebrating Dubai's history as a hub for trade and fishing.

2. Bedouin Artistry: We delved into the rich visual language of Bedouin heritage, drawing inspiration from traditional patterns, symbols, and the artistry of the culture.

The result is an "edgy, fun, fluorescent statement" that is both contemporary and deeply rooted in local narratives. The murals are a modern interpretation of cultural symbolism, designed to be engaging, thought-provoking, and highly "Instagrammable."

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Process & Execution: Art Driven by Community Collaboration

A cornerstone of this project was genuine community involvement. We believe that public art is most successful when it reflects the people it represents. For Wasl Port Views, this was a hands-on process.

• Research and Design: Our creative process began with in-depth research into the history of the Al Mina area and the visual culture of the region. Out own amazing leader and Creative Director Sam Kaufman led a great team of dsigners and muralists  featured many artists, including Melvin San Miguel, Amna, Homer and Karim developed initial concepts that blended historical elements with a bold, modern aesthetic.

• Community-Powered Execution: The project was distinguished by the helping hand of the local community. Residents were invited to participate and painted under the supervision of our own awesome muralists Shyam, Subith and Jaf, contributing directly to the execution of these statement murals. This collaborative approach ensured the artwork was not just placed in the community, but created by the community. This process beautifully embodied the spirit of unity and togetherness in a creative, tangible form.
   

A Strategic and Vibrant Color Palette

The color choices were deliberate and designed for maximum impact. We used high-contrast, fluorescent colors that make the murals pop against the urban architecture. This bold palette ensures the artworks are visible and dynamic at all times of day, creating a powerful visual identity for the development. The use of vibrant acrylic paints guarantees longevity and brilliance, making the murals a lasting landmark.

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The Outcome: A Celebrated Public Art Destination

The murals at Wasl Port Views have successfully transformed the residential area into a celebrated public art destination. They have not only enhanced the visual appeal of the neighborhood for its residents but have also become a popular attraction for visitors and art lovers across Dubai.

This project showcases Art Painting Lab's expertise in delivering large-scale, community-focused public art that is rich in narrative, visually stunning, and strategically designed to create a lasting, positive impact.

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