Students transform Scholars Restaurant with striking new mural

A vibrant new mural has transformed the entrance to Scholars Restaurant at City of Glasgow College, demonstrating the creativity and teamwork of students from the College's Visual Communication department.

The large-scale artwork was commissioned by the Scholars Restaurant team and the College's Design team to create a more welcoming entrance, encourage more staff and students to visit the restaurant, and celebrate the learning journey of hospitality students.

The project formed part of a Graded Unit for second-year Illustration students, who were challenged to research mural design before developing and pitching their own concepts. Shannon Forrest's winning design was selected for installation, depicting students learning and working across key hospitality roles including front of house, drinks preparation and professional cookery.

The mural was brought to life by Shannon alongside fellow second-year Illustration students McKenzie Brown and Karl Hampson. They were joined by third-year Design Practice BA (Hons) students Jodie Campbell, Kitty Hunter, Daina Aitkins and Alaa Ellah Al Ahmad, who completed the installation as part of their required work experience.

Together, students and staff invested an estimated 172 hours in the project, gaining valuable hands-on experience that mirrors the demands of professional creative practice.

Throughout the installation, students developed practical skills including large-scale painting techniques, transferring artwork using grid systems, selecting appropriate tools and materials, budgeting, project management, teamwork, and health and safety planning.

Reflecting on her placement, Design Practice student Jodie Campbell said: "Thank you endlessly for such a great and inspiring work placement."

Curriculum Head of Visual Communication Amy Whiten praised the commitment shown throughout the project.

"It took a big effort from everyone involved, and I am incredibly proud of the students' work ethic and attitude from start to finish. This project gave them the opportunity to apply their creative skills in a real-world environment while producing something that will be enjoyed by our college community for years to come."

The completed mural now provides a colourful and engaging welcome to Scholars Restaurant, celebrating both the talent of City of Glasgow College's creative students and the collaborative spirit that brings projects like this to life.