Barefoot Wine has today unveiled a community-inspired mural in Stoke Newington after a UK-wide search for unique neighbourly lockdown stories. The mural depicts a group of residents on Stoke Newington Road coming together during the height of lockdown and has been created by acclaimed East London based artist, Alice Skinner.
The showstopping celebration is dedicated to a group of close-knit neighbours who came together to support each other during lockdown by delivering food parcels, handcrafted cards and of course, wine. Resident, Kat Reis shared the beautiful story on social media and was selected to have the lasting reminder of this tale created to appear in the communal courtyard where the residents often gather.
The neighbours include an NHS nurse, chef, lawyer, charity worker and a yoga teacher with the mural also featuring iconic ‘Stokey’ sights. The artwork will be displayed in the block’s communal courtyard where the neighbours often meet over a glass of wine.
The winning story is reflective of the communities across the UK who have formed close friendships with neighbours over the past year after spending more time at home. This is echoed in recent research by Barefoot Wine which reveals that 46% of the UK and half of Londoners (52%)* now class their neighbours as their friends, an increase of 20% from before lockdown.
Mural artist, Alice Skinner said: “My community has never been more important to me, which is why I am delighted to be involved in Barefoot Wine’s campaign to celebrate those we live alongside. It’s been a pleasure to hear the story of the Stoke Newington neighbours coming together and to bring this to life through the mural that will now be a lasting reminder for them all in their communal garden. I hope they enjoy the finished mural!”
A spokesperson from Barefoot Wine, said: “Good neighbours can make a big impact on people’s lives and now more than ever, it’s important to celebrate and remember the individuals that make up our communities. As part of Barefoot Wine’s commitment to championing community spirit, we’re hoping that the neighbourhood-inspired mural will be a lasting reminder of the importance of community for the residents of Stoke Newington.”
