Morsviaduct Mural Leiden

Two swans, three seagulls, and a special local story. Under the Morsviaduct (Mors Viaduct) on Lage Morsweg in Leiden, MooieMuur transformed two grey concrete walls into colorful street art, featuring designs directly linked to the surrounding area.

Commissioned by the Municipality of Leiden and developed in collaboration with local residents, the project resulted in two murals. Roy Valk—better known as Karski—handled both the design and the execution. The result is a striking new look for a spot passed by many people every day.

Swans, seagulls, and a familiar local resident

The choice of birds was no coincidence. The student rowing club Njord is located opposite the viaduct, and the swan has long been a key symbol for the club. Consequently, two swans were given a prominent spot on one of the walls.

Three seagulls—birds inextricably linked to Leiden—appear on the other wall. One of them is Hector, a seagull with a distinctive crest that frequently wanders the neighborhood and has become a familiar face among residents. It is precisely these kinds of local stories that give a mural a personal touch.

From grey viaduct to street art for the neighborhood

The project is part of a broader initiative to make the neighborhood more attractive. With municipal support and a participatory process, local residents had a say in the viaduct's new look.

For MooieMuur, a successful mural begins with understanding the location. What is happening in the neighborhood? Which stories deserve to be told? And how can art contribute to an environment where people feel at home? At Lage Morsweg, those questions came together in two designs that not only add color but also evoke a sense of recognition. 

Want to enhance the look of a spot in your municipality, too?

From viaducts and tunnels to building facades and public squares, MooieMuur helps municipalities and organizations transform public spaces with art that resonates with the local area and its residents—handling everything from resident participation and design to final execution. Contact us to discover what a mural can do for your location.