Printed Wall Murals - Graphic History Company

The Graphical Tree were commissioned by the Graphical History Company to produce and install these amazing murals by illustrator Andy Goodridge.

The mural installation in Leicester marked the official launch of PPL PRS Ltd  – a music licensing organisation created through a joint venture between the UK’s two largest royalty collection societies, PRS for Music and PPL.

Andy's installation ‘United for Music' tells the story of the parent companies from 1914 onwards through over 200 musical references & song lyrics.

So what was our involvement and how did the project progress?

First off, after our initial client conversation introducing us to the brief, a member of our project management team undertook a site survey to see the PPL PRS offices first hand. These invaluable meetings allow us to see the locations for ourselves, to check on wall and surface textures and quality, and locate any potential items which might inhibit or affect the installation, such as air conditioning units, fire hydrant points or light switches.

Once we return from our site visit we can then advise the team back in the studio in a pre-production meeting about the project.

General things to cover for a job of this ilk include:

• Checking all relevant dimensions with the client.
• Ordering the right quantities and correct materials for job production.
• Making sure we are aware of key project milestones and deadlines.
• Working with our client to ensure we receive artwork at the correct date, especially if the installation deadline is fixed.
• The organisation of the installation team.
• Liaising with the installation location regarding fitting the graphics.
• Writing up any required Risk Assessments and Method Statements.
• Production of graphics.
• Checking of graphics against artwork and dimensions.
• Briefing of installers
• Installation of graphics
• Client follow up call to check all is well and everyone is satisfied with the end result.

The print and installation of the wall mural equalled 90 square meters of print and included 200 music references in the illustration.

We used a long-lasting self-adhesive vinyl with a tough washable seal, as we knew the graphics would be up for a while. And considering the high footfall of the corridors, it was likely it would come up against constant interaction with people. Lastly, as most of the imagery is white, it would need to be cleaned to keep it looking as great as the day we installed the graphics.

We always aim to produce the best quality and long-lasting graphics we can. It’s in no-ones interest producing something substandard or not fit for purpose. It just becomes a false economy for everyone involved if the job is below par. In fact, we wrote a journal piece about this, which you can read here.

Needless to say, this was a job we loved being involved with and contributing to. The satisfaction of seeing such a great set of illustrations produced and installed in-situ for all to enjoy is immense and makes our job extra worthwhile.

If you have a wall project coming up, large or small, we’d be happy to be involved. You can find our contact details here.

You can find out more about our collaborators at the links below.

The Graphical History Company

andygoodridge.com