FROM the streets of New York to a Christchurch pub – one graffiti artist has chosen a rather different project to utilise her talents with eye-catching results.

Artist Emma-Louise, who is based in New York, has created a colourful mural on the wall of the historic Ship in Distress pub, in Mudeford, dispelling the myth that graffiti is nothing but a nuisance.

Landlady Maggie Wheeler decided the pub needed a bit of a revamp, calling on family friend and artist Emma-Louise, to lend a helping hand.

Emma-Louise, who was visiting from New York, jumped at the chance and has spent six days lovingly producing the sea-themed scene on the outside wall of the 300-year-old pub using paint and spray cans.

Complete with waves and sea creatures, the quirky design, which is spread along the 60ft wall, has been welcomed by the local community.

Emma, who describes herself as a “fine art graffiti artist”, said: “I lived here many, many years ago and studied art in Bournemouth for a couple of years.

“I told Maggie I was coming though and when we met up she was saying she wanted to bring her exterior up to date. It was meant to be.

“Originally I wanted to do a giant squid coming off the roof but that was so involved and time was a factor.

“I really wanted Maggie to like it. It’s such a beautiful pub with such a rich history.

“But I wanted to get away from the traditional images of distressed ships and go with something more joyful and adventurous.

“The staff do so much for charity here, it’s a wonderful place and so many people have stopped to compliment the work.”

Maggie, who has worked at the pub for 17 years and run it for seven years, said: “People just used to drive by here and not know we’re here.

“We’re hoping now, they will see us and bring some more people in.

“I love what she’s done and most people have been really enthusiastic about it.

“We’re a traditional pub and have a real community feel.”