Celebrating Heritage Through Art: The Story Behind the Mural at William Say & Co

Honouring a Legacy Through Meaningful Imagery

Art has a unique power to tell stories and preserve memories. At William Say & Co, a Bermondsey factory known for being one of the last independent can makers in London, this power took shape in a mural that captures the company’s rich heritage and ongoing journey. This mural is more than decoration; it is a tribute to the people, history, and values that define the company.

Mr William Say Founder of Can Makers of London

The mural was painted inside the original hand tooling workshop, a space filled with history and craftsmanship. The artists, local Londoners themselves, aimed to create a piece that connects the past with the present. The mural includes:

• A portrait of William Say, the company’s founder, anchoring the artwork in its origins.

• A Spitfire plane soaring across the wall, paying tribute to Colin S. Bell, a World War II veteran and beloved colleague who flew Mosquito planes during the war. Colin, who lived to 104, personally signed his name on the mural, adding a deeply personal touch.

• A retro Polaroid camera, symbolizing the company’s modern online presence and how it embraces new ways to connect with customers.

• The Metal Recycles Forever logo, highlighting William Say & Co’s commitment to sustainability and responsible manufacturing.

• A Union Jack hot air balloon, representing pride in British manufacturing and the company’s place in London’s industrial landscape.

  
  

Each element was carefully chosen to reflect the company’s values and history, making the mural a visual storybook of William Say & Co’s journey.

Connecting Art with Industry and Community

This mural is a rare example of how art can bring industry and community together. The factory is not just a place of production; it is a living part of Bermondsey’s heritage. By commissioning local artists, William Say & Co supported the creative community while celebrating its own roots.

The mural’s location inside the hand tooling workshop is significant. This workshop is where skilled hands have shaped metal for decades, and now it also houses a piece of art that tells the story of those hands and the people behind them. The mural invites workers, visitors, and passersby to pause and reflect on the company’s history and values.

Spitfire plane same as the one pilot Colin S. Bell flew including his number. colin joined us for the unveiling and signed his name next to his plane.

A Visual Celebration of Innovation and Sustainability

William Say & Co has a long history of adapting and innovating. The mural captures this spirit by blending historical and modern symbols. The retro Polaroid camera stands out as a nod to how the company embraces digital platforms to reach new audiences. This shows that while William Say & Co honours its past, it also looks forward.

Sustainability is another key theme. The Metal Recycles Forever logo reminds viewers of the company’s dedication to recycling and reducing environmental impact. This commitment is crucial in today’s manufacturing world and adds a layer of responsibility to the company’s story.

The Union Jack hot air balloon symbolizes pride in British craftsmanship and the company’s role in keeping traditional manufacturing alive in London. It celebrates the local economy and the skilled workers who continue to produce quality products.

The Impact of the Mural on the Community

The mural has become a point of pride for the Bermondsey community. It connects residents to a local institution that has stood the test of time. For employees, it is a daily reminder of their work’s importance and the company’s heritage.

Art like this can inspire a sense of belonging and continuity. It shows that industry and creativity can coexist and enrich each other. The mural also invites conversations about history, innovation, and sustainability, encouraging people to think about how businesses can honour their past while building a better future.

Bringing History to Life Through Art

This mural at William Say & Co is a powerful example of how art can preserve and celebrate heritage. It tells the story of a company that values its history, respects its people, and embraces change. The mural is a living tribute to the founder, the veterans, the workers, and the community that have shaped the company.

By blending historical references with modern symbols, the mural creates a bridge between past and present. It invites viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability that define William Say & Co today.