'It looks incredible' - First look at new Bristol mural celebrating Big Issue sellers and BillyChip initiative

An incredible new mural is being unveiled at People's Republic of Stokes Croft.

The 19-metre mural celebrates a new initiative helping Big Issue sellers boost their income using Billy Chip's award winning currency.

The stunning piece is being brought to life by four of Bristol's most respected artists: Jody, Melo, Conrico and AimesWasHere.

It forms part of a wider awareness campaign for BillyChip Live - a one night only charity concert at Bristol Beacon on November 22 headlined by international DJ James Hayes.

All proceeds will go towards building three micro homes in the city for people experiencing homelessness, and will be delivered in partnership with Help Bristol's Homelessness

The mural is split into a four part story starting from a depiction of a Big Issue seller, shown from behind in the familiar red vendor jacket - a tribute to the self-employed spirit of the street community and brought to life by AimesWasHere, followed by a piece representing BillyChip by Melo. The third section by Jody is a bold portrait of global DJ James Hype who will headline a fundraising show at Bristol Beacon, and the final , by Conrico, will imagine the project’s impact: a vibrant scene of micro-homes set within natural surroundings, painted in the artist’s signature colourful, organic style.

Catherin Parsons, Managing Director at Big Issue said: “We’re looking forward to seeing the iconic red Big Issue tabard made vivid and larger than life by the talented artists curated by Art Sync.”

Jack Richardson, a Big Issue seller based in the city, added: “Now BillyChips can be swapped for big issues, which is amazing for me, and incredibly useful.

Jack Gascoigne, Director of Communications at BillyChip, said: “This partnership with The Big Issue is a huge step forward for BillyChip

“It proves that something as simple as a token can unlock real opportunity.

“By accepting BillyChips, sellers can grow their income and independence - and that’s exactly the kind of practical, human support we need more of. The mural puts a spotlight on that work, while also raising awareness of the housing solutions we’re delivering with Help Bristol’s Homeless through BillyChip Live.”

Each BillyChip is purchased by a member of the public at a participating café or shop and gifted to someone experiencing homelessness. The chip can then be exchanged for food, drink or other essentials - including now, for the first time, magazine stock for Big Issue sellers.

Azul Amos, co-founder of Art Sync, added: “We’ve always believed art should inspire and connect people. This mural is about amplifying stories that matter and using public space to highlight organisations making a real difference in Bristol.”

The project has been made possible through shared contributions: Art Sync waived its agency fee and donated £1,000; the artists reduced their rates; PRSC offered discounted gallery space; and BillyChip covered the remaining production costs.

The mural will be on public display at the PRSC outdoor gallery from Monday 20 October. Tickets for BillyChip Live with James Hype are on sale now at https://bristolbeacon.org/whats-on/james-hype-2025/

Due to the rainy weather, the full mural is expected to be completed by tomorrow (October 21).

Scroll through for a first look at the new mural or check out the video above to learn more from Azul Amos, Jasper (CEO of Help Bristol’s Homeless) and Jody.