An outcome of The FOLD, produced by Deco Publique, the Settle mural takes its direction from young people in the local area.

During a series of co-design sessions led by Deco Publique and PhD Candidate Laura Wareing, young people in Settle voiced their desire for a mural in the town - one that respected the heritage of Settle whilst also referencing a more contemporary vibe as a nod to the young people there. 

Deco Publique commissioned traditional Signwriter Signs by Umberto to design and paint the mural, which is sited at the top of historic Kirkgate, close to the main marketplace in Settle town centre. Created in contrasting pastel colours, the mural features four giant words ‘soar’, ‘wandering’, ‘rise’ and ‘rolling’, chosen by the young people as a reflection on their connection to their hometown.

It was important to the young people that, whilst the mural’s main aim was to reflect their own experience of growing up in the rural landscape of Settle, the work should have universal appeal for all residents and visitors. They chose the style, wording and colour scheme with this in mind and were involved in the artist selection process. Signs by Umberto was deemed as a perfect fit due to his ability to create contemporary and bold designs whilst honouring heritage.