Northern Ireland Street Murals

Teaching Activity

Before Reading

Think about murals that you have seen, perhaps in school or in museums. Why are murals painted? What do they normally signify or represent? What about graffiti? How is it different and what is its purpose normally? What makes both murals and graffiti effective or memorable?

Reflecting on what you already know about the Northern Ireland conflict, why do you think that street murals and graffiti would be widely used?

During Reading

As you look at the photographs of the murals, describe the use of symbols, slogans, artwork, or anything else that makes the mural effective. Then, try to guess which side (Unionist or Nationalist) the mural represents. Be sure to have a reason for your choice.



 

After Reading

Create a mural of your own for one side of the conflict. Be sure to use an original slogan and symbolic artwork that would motivate your side of the conflict or frighten the other side. Show your mural to your classmates and have them guess which side your mural represents.