David Attenborough Mural Painted in Bristol for Upfest

A new mural celebrating Sir David Attenborough has been unveiled in Bristol. Painted as part of a wider programme of public artworks. It has been commissioned ahead of this year’s Upfest festival.

Painted by Bristol based artist Hazard One, the large-scale portrait forms part of the new Quaker Lane art project in the city centre. The mural is one of several works installed in the area in advance of Upfest’s return for 2026.

Hazard One mural of David Attenborough on Quaker Lane in Bristol. Photo by Inspiring City

Portrait of David Attenborough

The mural is based on a photograph taken by Bristol photographer Guthrie O’Brien. It depicts Attenborough alongside a tawny owl. Hazard One has translated the original image using a combination of photorealism with fragmented geometric colour fields. A style that has become recognisable within her work over the past years.

Positioned prominently within the lane. The artwork shows Attenborough in a reflective pose with the owl. It’s a piece that reminds us of the work he is so well know for. Subtly referencing themes of wildlife and environmental conservation. It was created to co-incide with the activist’s 100th birthday celebrations.

Attenborough and Owl by Hazard One. Photo by Inspiring City

Part of Wider Upfest Programme

The work sits among a broader collection of murals produced for the Quaker Art Lane. A curated street art destination set in the city centre. Other artists contributing to the space include Inkie, My Dog Sighs, Insane51 and Melo, each bringing distinct visual styles to the project. They join a longer standing work from Dave Bain that was already present.

Quaker Lane artworks featuring Inkie, My Dog Sighs and Melo. Photo by Inspiring City

Bristol’s Continuing Relationship with Street Art

Bristol has long been associated with graffiti and street art culture. Producing internationally recognised artists and hosting one of Europe’s best-known urban art festivals. Upfest, founded in 2008, has played a central role in shaping that identity, attracting artists and visitors from across the world.

The addition of the Attenborough mural continues a tradition of using public art to reflect cultural figures and wider social themes. In this case, a focus on environmental awareness and a celebration of one of Britain’s most loved figures.

Attenborough Mural by Hazard One. Photo by Inspiring City

As Upfest prepares for its 2026 return, Hazard One’s Attenborough mural becomes one of the latest additions to Bristol’s internationally recognised street art scene. Installed within Quakers Art Lane, the work forms part of a wider programme of murals linked to the festival’s continuing presence across the city.