ArtHouse Jersey is announcing a call-out to artists to submit proposals for this year’s Art in the Arches: Safe Haven project, delivered in partnership with Ports of Jersey.
Returning for its third iteration, Art in the Arches is a public art project transforming Jersey’s iconic Elizabeth Marina. The new 2026 murals will sit alongside many other works of art from previous years of the project, creating an exciting and eclectic outdoor gallery.
Curated by artist and educator Jacqueline Rutter, the 2026 theme, ‘Safe Haven’ encourages participants to explore ideas of safety, belonging, and connection, to the Island, to the sea and to one another. Historically, harbours offer both protection and welcome; the theme reimagines Elizabeth Marina as both a literal and symbolic safe haven, a place of creativity, inclusivity, and hope. Possible interpretations might include: sanctuary, home, and resilience, the natural environment, ocean ecology, cultural identity and migration, mental health and wellbeing.
Artistic contributors will be a mix of local artists, community groups and school children, inviting diverse perspectives and showcasing local expression. Over the summer, a program of school and community workshops will take place leading directly into the design and creation of new murals. This year’s project will draw together and display work from a diverse community of participants, fostering community connection, place-making and participation in the making of public art.
Each participating artist and group will be assigned a mural arch to design and paint in response to the theme. Mural painting experience is not essential.
Mural concepts and designs should:
- Reflect the Safe Haven concept.
- Be appropriate to the public, outdoor context.
- Embrace creativity, cultural diversity, and environmental sensitivity.
- Explore relationships between land, sea, and community
- Be visible from a distance
James Tyson, Head of Programme at ArtHouse Jersey said: “It’s wonderful to begin the third edition of this vibrant project that brings together local artists and school students to Elizabeth Marina over the summer months to create original artworks for everyone to enjoy. This year we are looking forward to fill in the remaining gaps in the arches and so are delighted to be working again with lead artist and curator Jacque Rutter to bring together a new cohort of artists around the theme of Safe Haven and see what inspiring images they create”.
Pictured: Art in the Arches photography by Blake Watson- Rouge Bouillon
