The geometric goose: Warwick’s new neon icon lands on campus

One of Warwick’s most recognisable and iconic campus residents - the greylag goose - is now immortalised on the exterior of the Piazza building, forming a vivid beacon of creativity and collaboration at the heart of campus and student life. The bold neon mural design has been unveiled by the University as part of its 60th anniversary celebrations.

David Speed bought the mural to life during the University’s Welcome Week of 29 September – 3 October, when Warwick greeted its new intake of students.

David Speed comments, “This mural is a true collaboration. I spent over 60 hours on campus, connecting with faculty members, the wider community, and over 100 students to understand their experiences of life here. Together with students I workshopped a range of ideas on how to visualise those feelings.

“The Warwick geese emerged as a powerful symbol. They’re the icons of the campus and a reflection of its spirit. Like students, geese are social birds and flock together. They migrate each year and find temporary homes and form strong family bonds.

“Most people who visit the campus will fly away some day, but it’s my hope that this mural becomes a landmark and a memory from their time here, in their temporary home."

Conceived as a community cultural collaboration to mark the University’s 60^th anniversary, David gathered inspiration for the artwork’s design during 60 hours spent in a unique artist residency, exploring the voices, stories, and collaborative connections that define Warwick.

Immersed in campus life and Coventry’s wider community, David led interactive masterclasses with staff and students, gave a keynote lecture, and recorded a live episode of his Creative Rebels podcast with members of the Warwick and wider creative community. Beyond campus, he worked with local primary and secondary schools, creating artwork and sparking curiosity and confidence in young artists across Coventry.

The striking result is Temporary Home, chosen by a university-wide student and staff vote. A visual love letter to Warwick’s identity, values, and community spirit, David’s signature art brings together two of the campus’ most beloved symbols.

At the mural’s centre is Warwick’s famous feathered unofficial mascot, representing themes of migration and growth that resonated with Warwick students. The surrounding geometric pattern is drawn from the iconic Faculty of Arts Building staircase, capturing the students’ movement and ambition, as well as the architecture that defines the campus skyline.

Find out more on the making of the mural:

Professor Jonothan Neelands, Professor of Creative Education and Academic Director of Cultural Partnerships at the University of Warwick, comments, “Temporary Home brings colour, energy and moments of connection to the campus. Reminding us that the campus is also a temporary home for many of us – a place of welcome, togetherness and collaboration. David’s pioneering artistry will spark other cultural innovations across the campus”

Temporary Home will stand as both a lasting legacy of Warwick’s 60th anniversary milestone, and a vibrant reminder that creativity, collaboration, and community are at the core of the University’s identity.

ENDS