New Songlines mural unveiled at the South London Community Centre

Joy by Maisa Mreiwed, was unveiled at the South London Community Centre (1119 Jalna Blvd) on June 26, 2025. Mreiwed's mural was created through the Songlines Project.

ABOUT THE SONGLINES PROJECT

In January 2023 the City of London participated with the Huron University Management and Organizational Studies Class on a City Studio Project to study what London could learn from other UNESCO designated cities about creative collaborations that could benefit London.  The “Songlines” proposed initiative developed by a group of students from this class, based upon a previous UNESCO program developed in Auckland New Zealand, won the City Studio community of choice award at the end of term Hubbub Event held at the Pillar Nonprofit Network in April 2023. 

The City of London Culture Services and the London Arts Council, in partnership with the London Music Office and the Rotary Club of London, have come together to create the “Songlines Project.” This project will showcase the artwork of London’s local visual artists that is accompanied by a “Songlines” QR Code that links to the London Music Office’s Spotify channel and the diverse music of talented local musicians at various stages of their music careers.In alignment with City of London 2023 – 2027 Strategic Plan, the “Songlines” project has a strategic focus on Economic Growth, Culture, and Prosperity. It hopes to support the outcomes of London as a destination of choice and encourage the growth of local artistic and musical talent. “Songlines” will contribute to London’s UNESCO City of Music designation.

Songlines will beautify London’s streetscapes, communities, and neighbourhoods and strengthen London’s brand as an artistic and creative hub. Emerging and mid-career musicians and visual artists will gain more exposure to establish their brand that will further their careers to be export ready for more regional and international opportunities. This will in turn contribute more to the local cultural economy.

ABOUT THE PUBLIC ART AND MONUMENT PROGRAM

The City of London’s Public Art and Monument Program facilitates the creation of public art in London, which bolsters civic pride, provides focal points for community celebration, creates meaningful employment for artists, and attracts tourism and investment.

This mural was created by the artist through the City’s Public Art and Monument Program, managed by the City’s Culture Services team and administered by the London Arts Council and Indigenous London Arts, with support by the Rotary Club of London, and presented in partnership with the London Music Office.

ABOUT THE MURAL: JOY

“Joy, originally created with a quill and black ink complemented by colourful acrylics, is an artwork inspired by and digitally printed for The South London Community Centre.

At the heart of the artwork lies a prominent circle symbolizing unity, enlightenment, and harmony, reflecting the Centre’s integral role in bringing the community together through diverse activities for all ages.

The circle is guarded by two Northern Cardinals believed to bring joy, peace, guidance, and comfort to those in need.

Together, these symbols emphasize the power of community and the beauty of nature.”

– Maisa Mreiwed, 2024

ABOUT THE ARTIST

"My artwork reflects my personal, academic, and professional journey as a Syrian Canadian artist, educator, and designer within an interconnected global world. Drawing inspiration from both the tangible realities of my surroundings and the ethereal landscapes of my dreams, each artwork tells a story of survival through the eyes of different living beings embedded within layers of geometric figures, intricate details and symbols inviting viewers on a journey of exploration and wonder. The overarching message is one of unity emphasizing the importance of safeguarding our oceans, skies, lands, and all beings for a more promising present and future.

The artistic process for each artwork varies as it is guided by the story, canvas and scale. To tell each story, I use a quill and ink with black as a dominant colour complemented by secondary colours such as gold, copper, and silver acrylics, to create a harmonious balance and accentuate key symbols. Each stroke of the quill helps capture the beauty and emotions that manifest in my subconscious transcending the limitations of verbal communication inviting the audience to join me in the exploration of a world where words are unnecessary, and the language of the soul is depicted in shades of ink.

I see art as a powerful visual narrative that enables reflection, critical thinking, and connects people to each other and the environment. Each element and symbol that I weave into my artworks is intentional. While the meaning may vary, the intention is for the viewers to discover something new every time they look at a piece and use their imagination to decipher the messages."

– Maisa Mreiwed

– JOY Mural –