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The Initial Idea

Enniskillen BID set out in 2017 to bring street art to the walls of Enniskillen. Finally 2021 saw the first Mural created in the town Centre, with inspiration coming from Oscar Wilde. After a few were created, momentum for murals was gaining and businesses were offering their walls to Enniskillen BID for the mural projects.

With each stroke of the brush, Enniskillen’s mural scene continues to evolve, with 10 murals now in the town. Through these captivating artworks, Enniskillen not only celebrates its past history but also looks towards a future filled with art and community.

Enniskillen, nestled in the heart of County Fermanagh is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the inspiration for the newest mural.

The latest addition is vibrant and captivating, which is located at the entrance of Erneside Shopping Centre. Created by the talented artist Alexandra Demian, this mural is inspired by the enchanting beauty of Lough Erne and where the mural gets the name ‘Life on the Erne”.

A note from the artist: Alexandra Demian

I have been painting since I could hold a brush in my hand. As a child I used to grind up different things like plants, fruits, flowers and pretty much everything you can find in nature. I did this so I could make colours from them and experiment.

I started to work as a part time mural artist in 2012 and have now been full time since 2019. I think my style is quite versatile but I do prefer working on dark backgrounds and having vibrant colours as the main focus points, creating a strong contrast.

When I designed the painting for Erneside Shopping Centre, my goal was to create something captivating and enchanting – a visual piece that stimulates the senses. I aimed to craft a painting that comes alive, allowing viewers to not only see it, but also to hear, smell, and feel the humid air against their skin, if they allow themselves to be immersed in it. This is why attention to detail was paramount for me. Despite working on such a vast surface, I exclusively utilised brushes, deliberately excluding rollers, spray and other tools. This choice ensured that when observed up close, one can appreciate the delicate brushstrokes.

February 2023 – Alexandra Demian

As the murals become more popular, in 2023, Katie who owns Fermanagh Cottage Industries reached out with the offer of her huge gable wall for a mural.  

This mural located on East Bridge Street is full of colour and character, depicting all the known sights of Enniskillen & Fermanagh. Capturing the nature of Enniskillen being an island town, with pike filling the waters of Lough Erne to the castle and other historic locations in the town, this mural captures the spirit of Enniskillen.  

Back in 2021 when we commissioned Karl Fenton for the Ted Hastings mural, we first met Danni who is Karl’s partner and was assisting him.  Noelle, the Enniskillen BID Manager, started following Danni on socials and quickly saw her talent and loved her unique style of art. 

Many ideas were discussed regarding a theme but it proved difficult to decide on one theme.  Noelle then realised that combining Danni’s style and her recent work on celebrating towns and cities would work for this wall.  Katie loved the concept! 

Danni was booked in late 2022 and work began on the design.  While Enniskillen waited, Danni’s work on the new university of Ulster, Belfast,  featured worldwide when president Joe Biden delivered a key speech in front of the “Hello Belfast” mural. Danni’s diary quickly filled up after this so Enniskillen was very lucky to have secured her. 

Danni’s unique style has been so well received and cars regularly slow down to get another look or photo! 

SEPTEMBER 2023 – DANNI SIMPSON ASSISTED BY KARL FENTON

In November 2021 saw the creation of two murals in Enniskillen, both located in Paget Lane. Pike are the main type of fish found in the waters of Lough Erne, this was the central inspiration behind the captivating mural on Paget Lane. Against the backdrop of the grey wall, the vibrant mural of pike brings a burst of colour and life, transforming the urban landscape into visual art.

The location for this remarkable mural was generously offered by Joe the Baker, who runs his bakery nearby. His support not only provided the perfect canvas for the mural but also highlights the spirit of community collaboration that lies at the heart of Enniskillen. Through his generosity, Joe has helped to transform Paget Lane into a something visually pleasing.

As residents and visitors alike pass by this striking mural, they are reminded of the beauty that surrounds them and the importance of preserving it for generations to come.

November 2021 – Marian Noone “This is Friz”

“One for Sorrow” is found on the ground level of Paget Lane, captivating passersby with its intriguing portrayal of seven magpies, inspired by the rhyme, “one for sorrow, two for joy.” Against the backdrop of this quaint alleyway, the mural depicts the birds in their playful antics, caught in the act of pulling a pair of old boots.

The choice of Paget Lane as the setting for this enchanting artwork couldn’t be more fitting. Originally a shoe mender, the location resonates with the theme of the mural, offering a nostalgic nod to its past while embracing the narrative it now portrays.

November 2021 – Kevin McHugh

In the year 2022, four murals were designed and brought to life around the town, representing culture and attractions in Fermanagh.

The mural at Belmorecourt, on the wall kindly given by Terry McCartney, celebrates the Cuilcagh Boardwalk. This is also known as the Stairway to Heaven, a popular local and tourist hotspot in Fermanagh. Its design intricately incorporates the iconic boardwalk, inviting viewers to marvel at its beauty and significance in Fermanagh.

December 2022 – Marian Noone “This is Friz”

Enniskillen BID Murals have been hugely popular, supported by both locals and visitors. Stay tuned for more murals coming soon to Enniskillen, adding to its vibrant landscape!