Art / Street Art
David Attenborough mural among new Upfest artworks
A David Attenborough portrait, a tribute to Bristol’s festival scene and a 3D artwork are among the five murals unveiled ahead of street art festival Upfest 2026, Europe largest such festival which returns to Bristol on May 15.
Dubbed Quakers Art Lane, the project features pieces from the artists Hazard0ne, Melo, Inkie, My Dog Sighs and Insane51, who each completed their piece in under four days
Each of the five participating artists drew inspiration from Bristol in unique ways.
Harriet Wood, who goes by Hazard0ne, created a portrait of Attenborough in celebration of his 100th birthday on Friday, referencing a photograph taken by Bristol photographer Guthrie O’Brien.
Hazard0ne chose a reference image of David Attenborough and a tawny owl taken by Bristol photographer Guthrie O’Brien – photo: Olivia King
She chose the photo for its natural light and added glitches to blend photorealism with an abstract style, adding that she “enjoyed the challenge”.
Melo (Esme Lower) created a mural reflecting her background in illustration. It tells a story of Bristol’s festival and music scene through references including Pride, St Paul’s Carnival, Love Saves, and the Bristol Balloon Fiesta.
Lower is also Upfest’s lead artist this year, a role she confessed she is as surprised as she is honoured to receive. She said she has “idolised the other artists for years” and greatly enjoyed painting alongside them.
Melo is the lead artist for Upfest 2026 – photo: Olivia King
Graffiti artist Inkie painted the colloquial Bristolian phrase ‘Cheers Drive’ as his mural, blending humour and culture.
My Dog Sighs paid tribute to Bristol’s music scene, incorporating his trademark realistic eye as well as covert musical scores from the Bristolian bands Massive Attack and Getdown Services.
The final mural was created by Insane51, a renowned visual artist from Greece, who created a piece of Alfred the Gorilla which is viewable through 3D glasses.
Upfest is back in Bristol from May 15 – photo: Paul Box
Quakers Art Lane is the latest addition to Bristol’s street art scene, combining work from established artists with themes rooted in Bristol’s culture, music and identity.
Main photo: Paul Box
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