“How to Paint a Wall Mural That Can Impact Mental Health"

“How to Paint a Wall Mural That Can Impact Mental Health"

I wouldn’t claim to be an expert on children’s mental health, but when I was asked to create a mural for the Beacon for Kids at the Beacon Hospital, I knew it had to be colourful, immersive, and full of detail. Underwater themes are a favourite for both children and adults, so I gathered inspiration from vibrant coral reefs and all the fascinating creatures that live there.

To be honest, I’d been waiting for the chance to paint a mural like this for a long time—it felt like art therapy for me as much as it was for the children. Seeing the space come alive with colour and imagination is a reminder of the power of art to soothe, engage, and uplift.”

Getting the Background Right

When painting a mural with depth and impact, getting the background right is key. The wall colour sets the tone—it can even serve as your main colour for water, cutting down the amount of work needed while creating a cohesive base. Light and movement are equally important: soft rays of sunlight breaking through the water bring the scene to life and add a calming, immersive effect.

The brushes you choose make a difference too. I use a variety of mural brushes—the same type used for scenic art backdrops—which you can find online or in specialist shops. In Dublin, Evans Art Shop and MRCB have excellent options, including special varnish brushes perfect for murals. Finding the right tools is part of the process, and discovering them can be as rewarding as painting itself.

For me, preparing the background is more than just technical—it’s about setting a mood. A well-crafted, vibrant, and dynamic backdrop can create a sense of calm and wonder for viewers, particularly children. Immersing yourself in the colours and movement while painting can also feel like art therapy, making the creative process as nurturing as the final mural itself.

Details, Details—it’s All About the Details

When adding the coral reef, it’s all about creating a sense of movement and freedom. This is the stage to relax and loosen up a little. I like to step back and view the mural from a distance—it helps me see the whole picture, prevents the painting from feeling overworked, and keeps my brushstrokes fluid and unrestricted.

Acrylic artist brushes are perfect for this stage because their long handles allow for natural, sweeping movements. I also love a slightly fuzzy edge when painting—it softens the details, making the scene feel more lifelike and inviting. I often mix artist’s acrylics with water-based emulsion paint for interior wall murals; the combination gives depth, richness, and a tactile quality that draws viewers in.

Paying attention to these details isn’t just about technique—it’s about creating a space that can soothe, inspire, and engage those who experience it. Small gestures in colour and movement can make a mural feel alive, calming, and even therapeutic for anyone who spends time with it.

Painting Fish and a Turtle

I recommend using a projector to outline fish and other animals—it’s a real time-saver and makes the process much easier. At this stage, it’s important to slow down and focus on the details. Every element you add elevates the mural and brings it to life.

Stepping back regularly to view the work as a whole is crucial. There’s no point in painting extra fish under a spot where a chair or furniture will block them! That’s why it’s essential to communicate with your client: find out where furniture will be, and where children are likely to spend most of their time. You want all your lovely details to be visible and appreciated, not hidden behind heads or chairs.

Planning your mural thoughtfully saves time, prevents frustration, and ensures the final piece is both beautiful and functional. Believe me, I’ve gone in full force only to discover parts of the work were going to be covered—lesson learned!

Can a Mural Really Help with Mental Health?

The simple answer is yes. To be honest, I hadn’t fully considered just how much a mural could affect someone’s mood until I spoke with a nurse at the Beacon for Kids. After completing a coral reef mural there, she told me about a young boy who had great difficulty even entering the waiting room, let alone the nurse’s station where the mural is.

With gentle persuasion, his parents brought him into the space—and the reaction was incredible. The boy calmed down immediately and became completely transfixed by the mural. He spent an entire hour exploring the details with his eyes, completely absorbed, while his parents took care of other matters.

If a mural can have this effect—helping children feel calmer, engaged, and more comfortable in a hospital setting—then the work is more than worthwhile. It’s a powerful reminder of how art can soothe, inspire, and transform spaces. Imagine if all hospitals invested in this kind of experience—it could make a huge difference.

Review:

★★★★★

"Fran did a FANTASTIC job with the murals we are absolutely thrilled with the results we received from Fran. She consulted with us to determine what we were looking for and then suggested some creative improvements to our original plan. All the children that have passed through the clinic enjoy them so much."

Yvonne O Connor

Paediatric Clinical Coordinator

,Beacon Hospital for Kids, Dublin