Artist Spotlight - The Mural Lisa

Artist Name:  The Mural Lisa  

Artist IG:  @the_murallisa 

Artist FB:  The Mural Lisa 

Artist Website:   www.themurallisa.co.uk 

Artist LinkedIn:  http://linkedin.com/in/lisa-yates 

Artist location/country:  Skelmersdale, North West England

When did you first know you were a creative person?

“Creativity has always been a part of who I am, for as long as I can remember. Even as early as one year old, I was always holding a pencil or paintbrush of some sort. I first became conscious of my artistic ability in primary school when my friends and teachers would comment on the detail and accuracy of my artwork.”

Lisa Yates - aka The Mural Lisa

How did your creative journey start?

“My journey started with my love for Disney—particularly the classic ’90s movies like Aladdin, Hercules, The Little Mermaid—but it was The Lion King that truly captivated me. I was mesmerised by how they captured lifelike animal movements while giving each character unique personalities. 

I became obsessed with these films, replicating the characters over and over until I could draw them just like Disney. What started as a passion turned into a hobby, which then spilled over into my education and truly flourished throughout my school years.”

Children’s Bedroom mural

Did you receive a formal art education, or are you self-taught? 

“I’ve had a mixture of both. I continued my creative studies through high school, college, and university, where I studied animation. My degree covered modules such as life drawing and anatomy to help us understand the fundamentals of movement and expression—skills essential for bringing objects, scenes, and characters to life. 

However, much of my journey has been self-taught, developed through hands-on experience, experimentation, and creative exploration. Some of the most valuable lessons have come from working on real-world projects—understanding how to scale artwork to different surfaces, experimenting with materials, and continually refining my personal style.”

Digital Illustrations and hand drawn sketches

What is the most significant challenge you've faced as an artist to date?

“One of the biggest challenges has been navigating the business side of being an artist. It’s one thing to create, but another to market your work, find clients, and build a sustainable career. 

At first, I struggled with confidence—was I good enough? Could I really make this work? That’s when I sought out support, joining international and local workshops and creative communities. Being surrounded by other artists and entrepreneurs who understood the ups and downs of running a creative business was a game-changer. 

Having a network of like-minded people and practical business advice helped me shift my mindset. Instead of doubting myself, I started treating my art like a business with real value.”

One worry or wobble you still have about being an artist?

“Like many artists, I sometimes worry about maintaining momentum. The creative industry is unpredictable, with constant highs and lows. 

However, I’ve learned that strategy, consistency, and community are key. By continually marketing my work, building strong relationships, and embracing new opportunities—such as seasonal window art, creative workshops, and collaborations—I create a more sustainable future for myself as both an artist and an entrepreneur.”

Friends of Tawd Valley community mural

Do you feel you have a distinct style to your art?

“I’m still very much in a playful, explorative stage of my artistic journey. Like many artists, I strive to find my unique style, and I’m embracing the rollercoaster of that discovery. 

That being said, I believe my style is finally starting to shine through. I love painting bold, playful, and expressive pieces with a strong focus on intricate line work and storytelling. I aim to create murals and illustrations that feel alive—full of movement and energy—while inviting the audience to feel something and form their own interpretation. That’s what I love most about art—it’s a deeply personal experience for both the creator and the viewer. “

Carla Lane Animals In Need mural

How has your style evolved?

“My style is always evolving, but only recently have I felt it growing in confidence and clarity—and I’m excited for that to continue. 

In the beginning, I experimented with different techniques and aesthetics, trying to find what felt most authentic. Looking back, my artistic journey reflects my personal growth: I started off feeling insecure, awkward, and nervous about showing my true self. But with maturity, life experiences, and the courage to be bold, my work now feels more confident, authentic, and refined—just like me.”

Who or what are your biggest artistic influences?

“There are so many talented mural artists who inspire me, each bringing their unique creativity to transform spaces. To give myself a creative edge, I try to absorb a mix of influences rather than sticking to just one style. 

My biggest influence has to be animation, which has shaped my artistic identity since childhood. From the classic Disney films to Chuck Jones’ Tom and Jerry, Tim Burton’s gothic style, Studio Ghibli’s breath taking landscapes, and modern masterpieces like Spider-Verse, Blue Eye Samurai, and Arcane—animation continues to inspire my work today. 

I also discovered my love for murals by watching amazing artists on YouTube, such as TenHundred, Kiptoe, Jess Karp, Nerd Forge, and Tee2Sugars. Seeing their process and storytelling through videography sparked a whole new appreciation for murals. 

Beyond that, I admire incredible illustrators and character designers like Sam Yang, Jude Devir, Loish, and Joshua Mizusawa. 

But ultimately, my biggest influences come from real people, places, and nature. The energy of a space, the communities I interact with, and the stories behind a location all play a huge role in shaping my art.”

Can you describe your typical creative process from concept to completion?

“Here’s an overview of how I approach a mural: 

1.) Understanding the Space & Vision – Getting to know the location and the people who will interact with the artwork. 

2.) Concept Sketching – Developing initial ideas, exploring different compositions and colour palettes. 

3.) Refinement & Digital Mockups – Finalising the design digitally to ensure it works on a large scale. 

4.) Preparation – Site visit to inspect the wall condition, protecting surfaces, priming, sketching outlines, and making adjustments for textured surfaces. 

5.) Painting & Execution – The most exciting part! Building the mural in layers while balancing precision with creative flow. 

6.) Final Touches & Sealing – Adding details and protecting the artwork for longevity.”

What is your favourite part of the creative process?

“That moment when a blank wall transforms into something full of life and energy. Seeing people’s reactions—especially when they connect with the piece—is incredibly rewarding.”

One piece of advice that's helped you in your career that you can pass on?

“Put yourself out there—don’t wait for the ‘perfect’ moment.”

“Success starts with mindset. You have to live, breathe, and become what you want to be. It’s so easy to get caught up in perfectionism, but that can hold you back. Art is about evolution and progress—just keep creating and sharing your work with the world.”

One mural design you want to manifest to paint in 2025?

“I’d love to create a large-scale, interactive mural that goes beyond just being seen—it could incorporate movement, storytelling, and even digital elements to truly engage people with the space in a way they haven’t before. 

More than that, I want to create something impactful in my local town—a piece that both myself and the community can be proud of. I want to help change the narrative of Skelmersdale, transforming it into a tourist attraction for murals and creativity. 

Lastly, I’d love to shout out to Kate from Squiggly Ink for the opportunity of this spotlight – what an honour it is to be asked. I have loved watching your journey unfold and flourish ever since we met last year and became art buddies in Australia.  

I couldn’t do any of this new venture into this wild and wonderful world of being a mural artist without my beautiful Fiancé Mike. He is my biggest cheerleader, sees all the behind the scenes and always cheers me to keep going and keep striving to be the best that I can be.  

Thank you to all my wonderful family and friends who have supported me along this crazy journey. Huge shout out to all you wonderful fellow creatives out there, some of which I have had the honour of meeting in Australia on PJ’s wonderful artist retreat.”