Is This Newquay’s Most Eye-Catching Mural Yet? Fourth Artwork Joins Town’s Vibrant Trail

A bold new addition appears on Gover Lane

A brand new mural has burst into life in Newquay town centre this week, becoming the fourth piece in the growing MUQY Street Art Walking Trail. Unveiled on Tuesday 1st April 2025, the artwork now brightens up Gover Lane and adds to a colourful collection already attracting attention across the town.

From street art to storybook: what the mural represents

The latest mural is the work of renowned artist and designer Josephine Hicks, also known as Hixxy. Famous for her surreal, large-scale murals – described as ‘Left Field Tutti-Fruity’ in style – Josephine has previously collaborated with brands like Clarks and Bombay Sapphire.

Her latest creation takes inspiration from local Newquay life. Drawing from a wide range of archival sources, the mural reflects the ebb and flow of tourism in the town. Elements such as RNLI lifeguards, hospitality workers, dog walkers and traffic wardens are depicted in a bright, surrealist style that invites passers-by to form their own interpretations.

Trail continues to grow with more murals planned

Delivered by Newquay Business Improvement District (BID) and funded by Cornwall Council’s Town Delivery Fund, the mural joins three others already completed in the town centre. The MUQY trail, produced by Slapdash Studio, links each mural with QR codes and offers a free walking experience through Newquay’s creative streets.

Mark Warren, Newquay BID Manager, said:
“We are so excited to officially unveil the fourth mural in Newquay. We hope you agree it is a striking piece that speaks to the locals, whilst providing a fun and colourful lift to the street. Just like the others, it is thought provoking with depth and place-specific meaning. We have exciting plans for MUQY, with more sites set to launch in 2025, and we look forward to continuing to build on this legacy.”

The original concept for MUQY came from Dirk Parker, a BID board member, and Jack Tierney of Slapdash Studio, with early funding from Experience Newquay. The first three murals were created by artists Kleiner Shames, Elle Koziupa, and 45 RPM, each bringing a distinct style and voice to the project.

Now backed by Cornwall Council’s Town Delivery Fund, the MUQY trail is set to expand even further later in 2025, with more details expected soon.

To explore the trail or find out more about the artist, visit:
👉 lovenqy.co.uk
👉 josephinehicks.com

📷Colourful New Mural Has Bounced Into Newquay! - Photo Credit: Jack Tierney