Walthamstow just got a whole lot brighter—and bolder. A vibrant new six-storey mural titled The Priory Court Unity Banner has been unveiled at the Priory Court estate, turning the side of a housing block into one of the UK’s largest animated murals.

Created by internationally acclaimed artist INSA, renowned for his hypnotic "GIF-ITI" style that blends street art and animation, this monumental piece is not just a visual spectacle—it moves. Using the GIF-ITI Viewer app, residents and visitors can unlock the mural’s augmented reality experience, watching the artwork come to life through a smartphone screen.

But this project is about much more than paint and pixels. Co-produced with Wood Street Walls and The Digital Story Company, the mural was developed hand-in-hand with the Priory Court residents themselves. More than 60 locals contributed their voices, stories, and creativity in workshops and interviews—shaping every detail of the design. Two local youth apprentices learned painting and animation techniques, while The Bees Knees, a beloved older residents' group, handcrafted fox appliqués that fringe the mural in a touching nod to local textile traditions.

At the mural’s heart is a willow tree, symbolizing deep roots and community connection. Surrounding it are vibrant motifs, local wildlife, stitching patterns, floral designs, and celestial cycles, all paying homage to the cultural diversity, artistry, and resilience of the estate. The piece even draws inspiration from old union banners and the textile legacy of William Morris, weaving together past and present in one towering tapestry.

Artist INSA shared:

“If I was going to do a community mural, I wanted the community to feel engaged, pleased, and proud. I genuinely felt lucky that I had the ability to give this gift to Priory Court.”

The mural was made possible with support from Clarion Futures, the Wates Group, Impact Roofing, and the London Borough of Waltham Forest, who helped make this permanent artwork a reality. For Wood Street Walls, it marks the culmination of over six years of relationship-building and planning with the Priory Court community.

So next time you’re in Walthamstow, 👀 up. You just might catch a glimpse of art in motion and the living, breathing story of a community.

Hannah Judah

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