Blog by London Fashion Artist & Illustrator Elyse Blackshaw
As a London-based artist I love how art can transform spaces into immersive worlds. I’ve seen firsthand how hand-painted windows and murals can completely revitalise retail environments across the UK. Whether it’s creating an eye-catching high street storefront that draws people in or illustrating a mural in a bustling Westfield shopping centre, I love bringing these spaces to life through art.
My work, such as the hand-painted Cass Art window in London and the graphic mural for Westfield Stratford, has shown me just how much impact a custom design can have on a business.
The Power of Visual Storytelling in Retail
Retail spaces should be more than just places to buy things—they should tell a story, create an atmosphere, and evoke emotions. A hand-painted window or mural is a powerful way to communicate a brand’s personality and values. Whether it's a festive display, a bold artistic statement, or a subtle illustration that complements the store’s aesthetic, these pieces help businesses connect with their customers in a memorable way.
Attracting Foot Traffic with Custom Artwork
I’ve had the privilege of seeing my work stop people in their tracks. The Cass Art window design in Manchester, for example, was a vibrant, creative display that turned a simple storefront into a captivating piece of public art. In a time when digital ads and generic signage dominate, a hand-painted mural offers something unique, personal, and visually engaging. People naturally gravitate towards artistic, Instagrammable spaces, and a well-crafted mural or window painting encourages them to take photos, share on social media, and ultimately step inside the store. People enjoyed seeing the artwork evolve in real time, in front of their eyes.
Enhancing Brand Identity Through Art
Every business has a unique story to tell, and I love helping UK brands express themselves through art. Take my Westfield London mural project, for instance—this large-scale artwork wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was designed to enhance the brand’s identity and create a visually immersive experience for shoppers. Whether I’m working with a boutique in Mayfair, a café in Camden, a beauty shop in Brighton, or a pop-up store in Manchester, I always tailor my designs to reflect the essence of the brand and the emotions they want to evoke.
Some ways retail artwork can enhance different types of retail spaces:
Boutiques & Fashion Retailers – Colourful, trend-driven designs that create an aspirational shopping experience.
Cafés & Restaurants – Warm, inviting murals that make people want to stay, snap photos, and return.
Beauty & Wellness Shops – Elegant, nature-inspired artwork that reinforces a sense of relaxation and self-care.
Seasonal & Pop-Up Shops – Dynamic, changeable artwork that keeps the storefront fresh and relevant.
Sustainability and Flexibility in Design
I love that hand-painted artwork offers flexibility and sustainability. Unlike traditional vinyl signage, hand painted artwork can be easily changed and updated seasonally or adapted for special promotions, making them a versatile and eco-friendly choice. Using eco-conscious paints and sustainable materials, I ensure that my work aligns with brands that care about the environment while still making a strong visual impact.
If vinyl must be used, I always opt for eco vinyl made from better materials that minimise impact. Unlike traditional vinyl produced from petroleum-based PVC, eco-responsible vinyl uses recycled materials or bio-sourced PVC.
Bringing Your Vision to Life
I truly believe that a well-designed mural or storefront window isn’t just decoration—it’s an investment in your brand’s story and customer experience. Whether you’re looking to elevate your retail space in London or anywhere across the UK, make a statement, or create something that gets people talking, I’d love to collaborate with you!
If you’re ready to transform your space with a hand-painted design, get in touch! Contact me at info@elyseblackshaw.com
Topics: mural, mural art, window painting, window art, window artist, fashion illustrator, fashion artist, retail design
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