Murals to celebrate Portsmouth hosting UK Pride 2025
Five local artists have created the pieces on display at Gunwharf Quays
Last updated 14th May 2025
Five large-scale murals have been installed across Gunwharf Quays to mark Portsmouth’s role as the host city for UK Pride 2025.
Each piece, created by five local artists, will explore themes of love, acceptance, and unity.
The contributing artists – Samo White, Fark Fk, 2 Sisters, Mark Kellett, and The Frustrated Creative – are all based across the region and recognised for their distinctive approaches to contemporary mural work. Their involvement ensures the project remains rooted in local talent and community voice.
The artists and installation spaces will include:
• A bold and expressive mural will be created by Samo White, a local transgender artist and advocate for LGBTQIA+ representation, and located on the Central Square lift. Samo’s mural will celebrate transgender positivity through the vibrant colours of the transgender pride flag and text that reads ‘you are loved’.
• A collaborative artwork designed by 2 Sisters, Lauren and Chloe Piper, and Portsmouth Pride’s Graphic Design team, will be installed on the car park entrance and exit, capturing the spirit of Portsmouth Pride’s own creative identity. 2 Sisters work is known for bringing joy and creativity to urban spaces across Portsmouth and further afield.
• Fark Fk is a renowned Southsea street-artist who will be transforming the Marlborough Square exit tunnel with an intricate mural featuring his trademark rainbow hues and birds.
• The Frustrated Creative is the artistic alias of Hampshire’s own Holly Milner. Holly’s design will feature a rainbow spectrum and read ‘Proud’ in her signature style, inspired by fine art and signwriting traditions.
• Mark Kellet is a contemporary artist known for his surreal artworks that incorporate abstract, geometric and psychedelic elements. In addition to his artistic endeavours, Mark is a lecturer at Havant & South Downs College, mentoring the next generation of aspiring artists. Mark will lead the LGBTQIA+ youth groups from HSDC College to create an impactful community mural in the Plaza.
Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at Gunwharf Quays, commented: "We are thrilled to be announcing our partnership with local artists to commemorate Pride 2025. This project truly highlights the creativity and inclusivity that define both Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth itself.
“Pride is a fantastic opportunity to recognise the progress that has been made, as well as the work that still needs to be done. As an inclusive centre, we are delighted to be working as an ally with the Portsmouth Pride team, and look forward to helping deliver a fantastic welcome to guests from far and wide, participating in the many events taking place in the Portsmouth area over the coming weeks as the UK’s City of Pride.”