Thanks to the efforts of some supremely talented artists, and wonderful community organizations like the Newton Business Improvement Association and Cloverdale Murals, the walls of some of Surrey’s neighbourhoods are perfect selfie backdrops. Here are a few of our favourites to check out the next time you are visiting Surrey.
Sunshine Circle
Designed by: Lucy Fournier
This bright mural depicts a setting sun and landscape and was painted by members of the community. It was inspired by a philanthropic group, based in the Cloverdale area, in the early 20th century called “Sunshine Circle of the King’s Daughters,” who would provide a newborn’s layette to expectant mothers.
Where to find it: Behind Mates Uniforms (5696 176th Street)
Aspire to Inspire
Artist: WRDSMTH
Set on a bright yellow backdrop, “Aspire to Inspire” is the image of a vintage typewriter and the inspirational quote, “Aspire to inspire others and the universe will take note,” in a typewritten font.
Where to find it: 176 Street & 57 Avenue
Cloverdale
Artist: Judy Pohl
Inspired by the clover fields that the town was named after, “Cloverdale” serves as an official welcome to Historic Downtown Cloverdale. Bright and welcoming, the mural includes a nod to Cloverdale’s rural routes with a horse, barn, and field highlighted with pink flowers.
Where to find it: Side of CUPE 402 (176 Street & 57 Avenue)
Explore the Neighbourhood: Cloverdale is Surrey’s quaintest and most charming neighbourhood, and (fun fact) was actually Surrey’s birthplace. The streets are lined with boutique shops and beautifully manicured hanging flower baskets, and great restaurants!
Shopping: La Belle Vie for unique home decor, The Heart for stylish clothing, or shop for vintage furniture at Retro Mod.
Dining: Chatora Indian Cuisine for Spice Trail flavours, Hawthorne Beer Market for a flight and great pub food or Just Cakes Bakeshop for all things cake!
Deserve Your Dreams
Artist: Nomadic Alternatives
This eye-catching purple wall showcases 2 beautiful women scattering stars, and surrounded by flowers and butterflies.
Where to find it: Newton Mural Laneway (King George Blvd and 72 Ave)
Welcome to Newton
Artist: Daniel Fernandez
Depicts the progression of the community’s past, present and future, with colourful images depicting the old interurban train that ran through the area, modern streets, the annual Vaisakhi parade and a Translink Skytrain.
Where to find it: Newton Mural Laneway (King George Blvd and 72 Ave)
Unfinished
Artist: Daniel Fernandez
Leonardo da Vinci-inspired “Unfinished” is a 3D anamorphic sculpture mural featuring the Mona Lisa and the artist’s favourite da Vinci quote, “Art is never finished only abandoned.”
Where to find it: Newton Mural Laneway (King George Blvd and 72 Ave)
Explore the Neighbourhood: If you’re looking for a live show, a mouthwatering meal or just an overall treat for the senses, then Newton, Surrey’s cultural hub should be your cup of Chai.
Shopping: Payal Plaza for dazzling jewelry, saris and sweet shops.
Dining: Flights and tacos at Russell Brewing Company, super tasty Golgappa at Chacha’s Tandoor & Grill or classic French cuisine at the Old Surrey Restaurant.
Raven & the First Sunrise
Artist: Brandon Gabriel
Depicts the First Nations story about ravens that bring sunlight to the earth. This story is set in a time before humans when the Earth was still maturing. Ancient and wise creatures were hard at work shaping the Earth when the shapeshifter Raven was given the privilege of bringing light to the world.
Where to find it: Outside Guildford Library (15105 105 Avenue)
Love is Love
Artist: Jag Nagra
In celebration of Pride Month, ‘Love is Love’ was commissioned by Guildford Town Centre to show their support for everyone in the LGBTA_ community to embrace an open and inclusive environment for their shoppers and employees.
Where to find it: The staircase at the east entrance to Guildford Town Centre (10355 152 Street)
Explore the Neighbourhood: Urban, suburban and rural landscapes are what make up the growing metropolis of Guildford. From the tranquil forest of Tynehead Regional Park and the waterfront views of Surrey Bend Regional Park to Guildford Town Centre
Shopping: Don’t miss Guildford Town Centre for all the big name stores and lots of unique local shops.
Dining: Mr. Tonkatsu for lightly breaded katsus full of flavour, Dario Caffe for a perfectly crafted espresso coffee or authentic pad thai from Sabai Thai.
Wildflowers
Artist: Natalie Way
This bright, cheerful floral mural is guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of passersby.
Where to find it: Ocean Park Shopping Centre (12857 16 Avenue)
Explore the Neighbourhood: Ocean Park is the community between Crescent Beach and the city of White Rock. Primarily residential, this quaint little community is home to unique family-run shops, tasty eateries, scenic views, and a whole lot of small-town charm.
Shopping: 7 Rooms Emporium for gorgeous home decor, and Why Not Apparel for super cool vintage-y local-inspired t-shirts, toques or mugs.
Dining: Le Jardin for a unique dining experience with attention to every detail from the atmosphere to food and wine, Dudes Coffeehouse for the best brunch in the area and local’s favourite, Ocean Park Pizza.
Beachcomber Mural
Artist: Paul Ygartua
Painted with a single brush, this mural features the faces of 30 of the world’s legends. The mural was commissioned in 2000 and includes such famous faces as Chief Dan George, Martin Luther King Jr., Princess Diana, Terry Fox and the Dalai Lama. Beachcomber Hot Tubs, who commissioned the mural, created a guide that profiles the mural’s subjects.
Where to find it: Beachcomber Hot Tubs (132 Street & Comber Way) (they’re located in Newton … check out the neighbourhood highlights above!)