International artist brings a 'stunning visual narrative' to life with Waterford mural
The mural is inspired by historic maps, census records, newspaper articles and photographs from the Council's Archive Department
Waterford City and County Council, in collaboration with Waterford Walls, has commissioned a large-scale mural along a busy road in Ferrybank.
International artist Mariana Duarte Santos has been assigned to the Dock Road project, bringing the area’s rich and layered history vividly to life.
She is transforming a 150-metre wall, stretching from Plunkett Station, with a series of evocative images that reflect Waterford’s heritage. A particular focus will be on the historic communities of Ferrybank and Sallypark.
Drawing on materials provided by the Council’s Archive Department, the mural is inspired by historic maps, census records, newspaper articles and photographs.
READ NEXT: ‘There’s clearly a demand’ - Calls for expansion of bike-sharing scheme in Waterford city
From these sources, 29 distinct scenes will be reimagined, charting the north side of the city’s development as both a thriving industrial port and vibrant, close-knit community.
Originally from Lisbon, Portugal, Mariana began painting large scale outdoor murals in 2019 and has since completed over 50 public works across Portugal, Spain, Luxembourg and Ireland. Her practice is rooted in themes of memory, collective identity and the power of local storytelling, making her an ideal artist for this historically grounded project.
Paul Johnston, Senior Engineer with Waterford City and County Council, said, “With the ongoing regeneration of the North Quays, preserving and celebrating the history and essence of Ferrybank is vitally important. This mural is significant not only in scale but is a stunning visual narrative that bridges past and present.
“Most importantly, it pays tribute to the people who shaped Ferrybank, from railway workers and stevedores to families and generations of residents whose lives and livelihoods defined the character of the area,” he added.
This landmark artwork stands as a cultural asset as well as a community tribute, ensuring that Ferrybank’s stories remain visible and valued for years to come.
To see more of Mariana’s work, you can view her Instagram here: @mariana95santos