New mosaic artworks brighten the Christchurch coastline: what it means for you

If you walk the sea wall between Mudeford Quay and Gundimore Beach, there’s something new to look out for.

A series of 14 mosaic artworks has now been installed along the route, with each piece illustrating a wildlife species local to the Christchurch area. The idea is simple: celebrate the nature on our doorstep, add a splash of colour to a much-loved path, and help more people notice the wildlife that shares this coastline with us.

What’s been installed (and where)

The mosaics have been fitted onto the sea wall linking Mudeford Quay to Gundimore Beach — a popular stretch for beach walks, dog walks and everyday commutes.

They’ve been designed and created by Christchurch-based artist iffy (Matthew Byrom), using hand cut and glazed ceramic pieces. In total, the 14 tactile artworks were created using over one thousand hand-made ceramic pieces.

Why it matters for locals

This isn’t just art for art’s sake — it’s designed to be:

• Publicly accessible (no ticket, no gallery, no barriers)
• A way to brighten up the pathway between the Quay and the beaches
• A gentle prompt to slow down and notice local nature

Cllr Andy Martin, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Customer, Communication and Culture, said the series is a “fantastic addition” that celebrates Christchurch wildlife and local creativity. He added that projects like this can bring people together, enhance public spaces, support health and wellbeing, and encourage a deeper appreciation of the natural environment.

Community workshops helped shape the project

As part of developing the designs, Matthew Byrom led community engagement workshops with local community groups, school children and youth groups.

The workshops introduced participants to mosaic-making and explored the community’s connection to local heritage and nature — helping ensure the final artworks reflect the place they’re installed in.

Byrom said he hopes the mosaics will “brighten commutes and dog walks” and make the area feel cared for, adding that outdoor artwork can bring art to people who might not otherwise visit a gallery.

Which wildlife will you spot?

The mosaics feature species you can find in and around Christchurch, including:

• Natterjack Toad — now with a stable population at nearby Hengistbury Head, supported by careful conservation
• Birds such as Oystercatcher, Grey Heron, and Stonechat — all found around the Mudeford and Stanpit Marsh area
• The Shore Crab — a nod to classic memories of crabbing along the quayside

It’s a lovely way to turn a familiar walk into a mini wildlife-spotting trail — especially for families.

Want more local trails?

Information about the mosaics, plus walking art and heritage trails across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch, can be found on the Explore BCP website:

• Explore BCP: www.explorebcp.co.uk/

A quick note on funding

BCP Council says the project is fully funded through a UK Government grant and forms part of BCP’s Coastal Art Trail, encouraging visitors to explore more of the coastline and heritage sites through free opportunities to access art and culture.

The editor’s notes also thank local partners and groups involved, including Hampshire Cultural Trust, Somerford Primary School, Somerford Arc ADaPt Café, The Chatterboxes Youth Groups, and local residents.