Lewisham Shopping Centre’s drab exterior has been transformed by a colourful mural inspired by the Museum of Migration inside.

The work is the culmination of the Lewisham School of Muralism’s first course, in which six students engaged with community before settling on the concept.

The mural depicts a ‘welcome home’ doormat, with shoes scattered around it, representing openness and inclusivity.

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Jo Baker, a Lewisham School of Muralism Student, said: “The participatory process allowed us and those from the community we were working with to share ideas and quick sketches with each other, then discuss the ideas that emerged.

“It was interesting how through sharing in this way, you get an idea quite quickly of what is important to people when thinking about migration, and how the group wanted to deal with the subject.

"We were particularly interested in treating this difficult issue with warmth and humanity.

“It was a great process to be part of as a student, helping me to understand how to ensure our future work involves the communities it is based in.

“We are very thankful to those in the local community who took part in the design process with us.”

The Lewisham School of Muralism, an offshoot of long-standing community street-art initiative Artmongers, was established last year following a fundraising campaign.

Students from various departments at Goldsmiths work alongside local artists from disadvantaged backgrounds to produce artwork for their area.

On the April 17, the Lewisham School of Muralism will be varnishing the mural from 10 to 1pm.

The public is invited to come and talk to the students, to the Director of the School or the participants and members of the community.