The 12 public artworks feature alongside 54 other eye-catching creations highlighted by Widewalls, an online magazine for contemporary and modern art.
Depicting Thamesmead’s remarkable architecture, wildlife and landscape, these bright and bold artworks adorn 12 underpasses in the northern parts of Thamesmead’s canal network. They were created in 2020/21 following a design competition led by Peabody in partnership with street art specialists, Moniker Projects. Competition winners, all from Thamesmead – print designer Paige Denham (pictured), illustrator Keith Hau, artist Cieron Peel, and street-art legend Astek – worked alongside internationally established artists, Louis Masai, Jo Peel, Curtis Hylton, Irony and Hixxy to breathe new life into these spaces, enhancing the walkways and strengthening the sense of pride in the area. Each artist worked exclusively on a specific mural.
The underpass mural programme is part of the long-term cultural strategy for Thamesmead, which is being developed and delivered by Peabody as part of our long-term regeneration of the neighbourhood. Our vision is for Thamesmead to finally realise its potential as London’s new town: creating more than 20,000 new homes over the next two decades; improving job opportunities; investing in cultural, leisure and commercial activities; enhancing green spaces, lakes and canals; and creating better connections with central London.
Print designer and Thamesmead muralist, Paige Denham, said: "It’s extremely exciting that this series has been listed in the world’s most beautiful murals. Since the murals have been installed, we as artists have received many compliments and well wishes from residents and visitors. People have said that the print, designs and patterns make all the difference to the area. It’s so encouraging that the painting of a 10-metre high wall in my home-town, which is such a big achievement for me in my career so far, is not only making an impact locally but also internationally.
“Having lived in Thamesmead for 25 years I can say with huge confidence that the talent of local people and the creativity we are seeing flourish has always been there, it just needed to be nurtured. I am so proud to be from Thamesmead, and I will continue to champion the town as we welcome change, investment and creativity in its widest sense.”
Adriana Marques, Head of Thamesmead’s Cultural Strategy at Peabody, said: “Our bold and bright murals aim to bring joy to the Thamesmead community, enhancing this picturesque canal network and celebrating our unique and wild landscapes. They showcase the incredible talent of our local creatives, alongside internationally acclaimed street artists, who will no doubt go from strength to strength. It’s fantastic to see them achieve such recognition.
“Culture is a key priority of Peabody’s regeneration of this vibrant neighbourhood. Our continued investment in local artists and groups, large events, community projects and cultural buildings aims to ensure that Thamesmead is a place that people love – whether they are living, working or visiting here. We’ve plenty in store for 2022 – and beyond – and we look forward to sharing even more from our creativity community.”
