Tall Ships Youth Trust celebrates 70 years with spot on Portsmouth's iconic city mural map

Celebrating seven decades of empowering young people through life-changing sea voyages, Tall Ships Youth Trust is thrilled to announce its official inclusion on Portsmouth's famous Mural Map in Southsea, painted by renowned local artist Mark ‘Rocky’ Lewis in partnership with Art & Soul Traders.

The Tall Ships Youth Trust Team visit the map. | Tall Ships Youth Trust

placeholder image — The Tall Ships Youth Trust Team visit the map. | Tall Ships Youth Trust

As part of a collection of celebrations marking its 70th anniversary, the Portsmouth-based youth development and outdoor learning charity commissioned Mark to add one of its iconic Challenger yachts to the ever-evolving city map mural. The vibrant addition highlights the charity's local maritime heritage while proudly supporting Portsmouth's flourishing street art scene.

As one of the final mural commissions of the year, the Tall Ships Youth Trust team took a rather wet walk down to Southsea to view Challenger on the wall in person - proving not even a rain shower could dampen the celebration.

The TSYT Challenger up close! | Tall Ships Youth Trust

Kelly Caulfield, Marketing Manager at Tall Ships Youth Trust, said: "Commissioning Mark to put one of our Challengers on the mural map is a wonderful way to celebrate our history, support local art, and mark our 70th anniversary. It was such a lovely surprise for the team to see us up on the wall when we took a walk down, and even with a rather wet stroll, seeing our boat up there made it all worthwhile!"

Mark ‘Rocky’ Lewis, Artist behind the Portsmouth Mural Map, added: "It’s been fantastic working with Tall Ships Youth Trust to bring one of their Challenger yachts to life on the map. I’m really excited to have them on board and having them join the wall during their 70th anniversary year makes it extra special - especially as it was one of the very last commissions before wrapping up painting for the season!"

The iconic Strand Mural Map, located at Clarendon Road in Southsea, has been continuously updated for nearly three decades, showcasing Portsmouth’s rich culture, community landmarks, and vibrant history. To view the Portsmouth Mural Map and spot the Tall Ships Youth Trust Challenger vessel on the Solent, visit the mural at Clarendon Road, Southsea.