King’s Meads is an extensive nature reserve lying between Ware and Hertford, filled with wildlife and enjoyed by the local community. The wildlife murals have been painted on the pillars of the Kingsmead Viaduct which carries the A10 over the nature reserve. Each mural displays one wild species which can be found within the reserve across the seasons.

People and Wildlife Officer for King’s Meads, Dave Willis said:

“King’s Meads is an asset for wildlife and people in Hertfordshire. With strong populations of amphibians and reptiles, water voles, numerous bird species and dragonflies in the summer, King’s Meads should be treasured by all those who visit the site. This is why we have commissioned the painting of eight murals, to celebrate the amazing wildlife at the reserve. We hope that the murals will be appreciated by all and will encourage people to think about how they can support nature on a local scale.”

The images are displayed on pillars either side of pathways around the reserves and near to the railway. The murals were commissioned as part of the Restoring the Majesty of the Meads project, which aims to restore the biodiversity of King’s Meads and engage the local community to support wildlife on their doorstep. The art project is also supported by the New River Line railway and passengers on the train will be able to view the artwork from within the carriages.

The location of each painting has been carefully selected to display where these species reside on the reserve; a great created newt is painted near to Chadwell Bank, which offers fantastic habitat for this species as they can live on the land in winter and return to the water for the breeding season once the temperature starts to rise in spring.

The artwork has been painted by graffiti artist, Mark Tanti of Demograffix, who has completed similar projects around Hertfordshire. Mark said:

“I had a great time painting the nature portraits as it was a chance for me to demonstrate what I am able to paint with a spray can and to push myself in portrait arts. At times, it was a particular challenge working in harsh weather conditions as the freezing temperatures can reduce your concentration and affect the outcomes, but I always had fun. I really hope people can appreciate the effort I put in and that the murals last for many years to come. I know they have brightened up people's lives already from taking to locals and visitors to the nature reserve.”

To find out more about King’s Meads Nature Reserve and its wildlife, visit our reserves page.