Today saw the unveiling of a 40ft mural celebrating the cultural legacy of Chelsea icon Dame Mary Quant, at 31 King’s Road. Created by renowned typographic artist Alan Kitching and commissioned by Cadogan, the mural draws inspiration from Quant’s witty declaration, “Fashion is not frivolous, it is part of being alive today.”
Hugh Seaborn, Chief Executive of Cadogan, emphasised Quant’s enduring impact on fashion, London, and especially Chelsea, stating, “Dame Mary Quant’s legacy revolutionised global fashion and cemented Chelsea’s place at the heart of it. Her words perfectly capture the vibrant spirit of the King’s Road today.”
The mural, unveiled by Mary’s son Orlando Plunket Greene, also marks the start of Kensington + Chelsea Art Week, celebrating creativity across the Royal Borough. Artist Alan Kitching shared his inspiration, “Mary’s boldness and brilliance, and our shared love of bright print, truly brought the King’s Road to life.”
Heather Tilbury Phillips, former Director of Mary Quant, reflected on the boutique’s groundbreaking influence, noting, “Mary often avoided personal attention, but loved seeing her name in lights. This mural is a perfect tribute to her incredible contribution to global fashion and huge impact on London’s cultural scene.”
The King’s Road will see further cultural additions over the next year with a new ‘creative quarter’, pub theatre and another major public art installation as part of Cadogan’s latest development, The Gaumont.
