Mark Lewis and his team of artists from the Art & Soul Traders have worked with and painted many iconic pieces within Portsmouth and now have the images along the new Trafalgar Gate Link Road to add to their successes.

 The work that Mark E.W. Lewis and his colleagues undertook on the Trafalgar Gate Link Road project was of an extremely high standard, this included not only the artwork on the walls of the new link road but the community involvement and help provided to the local infant school The Flying Bull.

The arts and soul traders worked extremely well in the time constraints they were given, even with the delayed start at the beginning of the project due to adverse weather. 

Overall I was extremely satisfied with all aspects of the job and the finished product and wouldn’t hesitate to use the company again for future artwork needed in the city.  

 *Project unveiled by Princess Ann in July 2011

Anthony Quintavalle, Portsmouth City Council

The project brief was to amalgamate the best designs from pupils from local schools to create a jungle-themed mural for the play park area at West Leigh. The mural was approx 20ft high by 200ft wide and was undertaken by our artists the winning pupils of the art competition and their family members over a 3 day period.

I found Mark and his team, to be very professional, organised and polite. If I have any future wall art I will not hesitate to contact Mark again.

I have known Mark for many years through his local commitments to the Arts and Community. I am a photographer and have been fortunate to capture some of the wonderful work that Mark produces out in the open for the good of all the community. Mark is a very approachable artist with lots of energy and enthusiasm having completed numerous projects that make our world a much brighter and better place…

Peter Missen, Photographer

We have worked with Mark on many occasions but in particular, he stood out with his commitment and effort helping us create a visual feast for the World Music Village at Victorious Festival in Portsmouth summers of 2016 and 2017.

Mark went beyond expectations bringing in support from the community, managing the working teams as they constructed and designed the stage surrounds, murals, furniture and other decoration for the area. He also organised and delivered highly successful workshops throughout the weekend at the festival. All this was conducted to a high level of professionalism and we hope to continue working with Mark again on forthcoming projects.

Ellie Milner, Arms Around The Child

I first came into contact with Mark through the Arts Lodge in Portsmouth’s Victoria Park that he led for a number of years. His vision for a multi-use community arts space was very successful, with everything from film-making courses, art exhibitions, children’s activities to music events and a superb community cafe.

I often saw mums with young children taking part in outside play activities, who were openly welcomed. Mark’s skill in engaging with communities at a grassroots level is excellent, and he is passionate about providing creative opportunities to a diverse range of people.