Fitzrovia Quarter is delighted to unveil a striking new mural by London-based emerging artist Oliwia Bober on Mortimer Street this Autumn as part of its new art campaign ‘The Artist’s Corner’. The artwork, commissioned by The Langham Estate, will celebrate the creativity and rich cultural heritage of this central London neighbourhood. The mural, entitled ‘Threads in Common’, will be available to view from October.
Bober’s proposal for the mural, was selected earlier this year following an open competition for an emerging artist to capture the vibrancy of the area’s past and present. The artwork will decorate a three-storey blank wall above the FS8 pilates studio on Mortimer Street, paying homage to Fitzrovia Quarter’s intersecting communities and honouring the craftmanship of the women who fuelled the local garment industry from the 19th to the early 20th century. The vibrant colour scheme is inspired by the changing light on the building throughout the day, evoking the afterglow of sunshine city. The palette also reflects the turquoise tiles of nearby Grade II-listed Radiant House and the deep red brick of the neighbouring buildings, including opposite Ames House, which in 1904 became the first major purpose-built hostel in Fitzrovia designed specifically for women.
To celebrate the unveiling, Fitzrovia Quarter will host a curated three-day pop-up exhibition at 55 Eastcastle Street, 23-25 October. Open to the public, the space will captivate visitors with a vibrant mix of artworks from local galleries and cultural partners, including further works from Oliwia Bober. Galleries and local businesses will also offer various promotions and special arts-themed events throughout the area. By showcasing Fitzrovia Quarter’s creative energy and strong sense of community, the pop-up will encourage visitors to explore the neighbourhood’s galleries and venues, reinforcing its reputation as one of London’s most engaging destinations for arts & culture, shopping, food and wellness.
Commenting on the selection process, Greg Hutcheson, Brand & Marketing Manager for The Langham Estate said: “Oliwia’s thought-provoking concept stood out for us as a careful blend of Fitzrovia Quarter’s rich historic setting, with the energy of our contemporary businesses. The mural will not only enhance the streetscape and complement the building’s architecture, but this beautiful work has been sustainably designed for longevity, in the hope that it will be a meaningful part of our community for years to come”.
Commenting on ‘Threads in Common’, Oliwia Bober said: “I’m thrilled to be delivering the mural on Mortimer Street this autumn. My intention for the work is to reflect the beauty of collective effort over individualism, in a celebration of a place which owes a lot to the communities who shaped it. The mural design recognises the women living in the area who powered the garment trade in the 19th/20th centuries, as well reflecting contemporary Fitzrovia as a place of discovery, dynamism and connection. I can’t wait to see the impact on the streetscape and see how people react to the new artwork”
From independent galleries and music venues to historic landmarks and cultural institutions, Fitzrovia Quarter is a thriving neighbourhood where London’s artistic heritage meets West End charm. With a programme of events and installations this year, visitors can explore Fitzrovia Quarter’s creative energy, stumble upon hidden gems, and enjoy moments of discovery at every turn.
Mural location: 67 Mortimer St, London W1W 7PA
Pop-up location: 55 Eastcastle St, London W1W 7SE
