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In 1985, in response to a decline in the economic state of the region, a new organisation was founded – the Kentish Association for Tourism. With sublime synchronicity, a documentary about Chemainus and its resurrected prosperity through mural art was shown on television on the eve of KAT’s first meeting.

Subsequently mural artist John Lendis was commissioned by KAT to paint the first mural titled “Stillness and Warmth” which was completed in 1986. Many more murals followed, each depicting something of the history of Sheffield and the Kentish region.

Just as in Chemainus, Sheffield soon reaped the benefits brought by a blossoming tourism industry.

More trade, more shops, more accommodation and restaurants, more jobs, more residents and more funds in the community.

KAT metamorphosed too into a SMARTA name – becoming the Sheffield Mural And Rural Tourism Association in 2001.

The other mural story of which Sheffield is proud is its Mural Fest – an annual competition of mural art. Attracting participants, both local and from afar, for a week long mural painting event. Now in its fifth year, it has become a recognised event on tourist schedules and in 2008 will become an international stage as part of the Global Mural Fest & Conference week.