As the University of Warwick turns 60, it is choosing to mark the occasion not with speeches and ceremonies, but with bold colour, creative energy and a striking gesture to its future.
In collaboration with the renowned British artist David Speed, the university has launched Retreat to Create, an ambitious legacy project that merges large-scale public art with campus life and community engagement. Known for his vivid, neon-infused murals and luminous palette, Speed will spend time on campus, meeting students, staff, and local residents as he draws inspiration for a new permanent artwork.
Image courtesy of University of Warwick
The centrepiece will be a mural on an as-yet-undisclosed site, designed and executed by Speed in his trademark fluorescent style. But the artist’s presence will go beyond the visual. During his residency, he will host a series of interactive masterclasses, deliver a keynote lecture in the award-winning Faculty of Arts Building, and visit a local school to speak with young people about his journey and practice. He will also record a special episode of his hit podcast, Creative Rebels, live from campus, joined by guests from across the creative industries.
Speed is already a familiar name in Coventry. In 2021, he created the Hope mural on Tower Street as part of the City of Culture programme, a work that quickly became a symbol of optimism in uncertain times. His return to the region further strengthens that connection, with this latest collaboration rooted in the spirit of exchange and creative renewal.
Image courtesy of University of Warwick
“I’m looking forward to returning to Coventry for my Retreat to Create residency. I see this project as a true collaboration, not only with The University of Warwick, but with the wider community. My work, at the core, is about light and I’ve learned that you find light by exploring new paths and collaborating with many different kinds of people.” said David Speed. “This is an opportunity to share what I’ve learned throughout my career and to combine my art with one of my greatest passions: inspiring people to unlock their creativity and transform their lives.”
After immersing himself in campus life, Speed will produce two mural proposals, with students and staff invited to vote for their preferred design. The chosen piece will be unveiled in late May and will become a lasting part of the university’s visual identity.
Image courtesy of University of Warwick
Professor Rachel Moseley, Vice-Provost of The Faculty of Arts, said: “Warwick’s 60th anniversary is not just a reflection on our past, but a bold step into the future—one that champions creativity, culture, and collaboration at its core. “Through this partnership with David Speed, we are bringing our Cultural Strategy to life, transforming a blank wall into a bright legacy that embodies our commitment to artistic expression and community engagement. This mural will be a lasting testament to Warwick’s spirit of innovation and imagination, inspiring generations to come.”
The project is being led by the University’s Marketing, Communications and Insight team, and forms a key part of a wider programme of 60th anniversary celebrations. These will culminate in November with an international light procession through the heart of campus — a moment designed to bring together the university community, past and present.
Established in 1965, the University of Warwick has built a reputation for innovation, global outlook and academic excellence. This anniversary is not only a moment of reflection, but an opportunity to look ahead — with creativity, colour, and a renewed sense of purpose.
©2025 University of Warwick
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