Cornwall College Art Students Create Mural at Fowey Docks

Young artists bring Cornwall’s mining heritage to life on the harbour wall

A striking new mural is turning heads at the entrance to Fowey Docks, thanks to a group of talented art and design students from Cornwall College, St Austell.

The students have been working closely with the team at Imerys to transform a prominent wall on the company’s site, a location often seen by cruise liner passengers arriving in Fowey during the summer season.

A tribute to Cornwall’s mining story

The collaboration celebrates Cornwall’s rich china clay mining heritage and offers a creative platform for young artists to showcase their talent.

The idea was brought to life by Marie Timms, supply chain analyst at Imerys, who led the project with support from Clare Sleeman, the company’s talent and learning manager. Over the past few months, the students have been working with Imerys to develop a mural design that reflects the area’s mining legacy.

Back in March, students shared their initial ideas and took part in feedback sessions before a final design was chosen. Painting began on site recently and the mural is expected to be finished by early September.

Supporting local talent

Marie Timms said:

“This has been an incredible opportunity for the students, seeing their ideas come to life on this scale has been inspiring. This is what supporting young talent looks like — giving them the tools and space to make their mark.”

Alex Taylor-Morrall, port manager at Imerys Fowey, added:

“We’re proud to work as one team with Cornwall College on this unique project. The mural not only enhances the site visually, but also symbolises our commitment to continuous improvement, community engagement, and supporting the next generation.”

A warm welcome for visitors

With the mural now visible to visitors arriving by cruise ship, the once plain entrance now offers a bold and colourful tribute to Cornwall’s past, present and future — told through the eyes of the next generation of local artists.