Gogi is featured in the new artwork Was. Is. Will Be. thanks to his legendary status in Thamesmead. The 76-year-old ran Gogi’s Supermarket, in Arnott Close, for almost five decades until his retirement in 2022.
His former business features in the poem that now stretches across Cygnet Square, making Gogi a permanent part of the town he served for so long. The words are etched into paving, with the final line being displayed on a weather vane-style signpost.
Artist Jasleen Kaur included Gogi's Supermarket in the work after residents pinpointed its importance as a local landmark during workshops.
“It’s so great,” said Gogi, speaking at the artwork’s unveiling. “I’ve spent almost my whole life here – 55 years in Thamesmead – and I ran my shop here for nearly 50 years.
“I’m really proud to see it because I was always so proud to serve the community here.”
Despite announcing his retirement more than three years ago, Gogi hasn’t quite been able to resist the lure of shopkeeping. He still works regular morning shifts with his family at Tari’s, on Yarnton Way.
The new artwork was commissioned by a group of young residents and funded by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their plan to improve, grow and look after the town for the long term.
