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Young people have spruced up their neighbourhood in Gospel Oak as part of a graffiti art project run by a local charity.
Shop shutters in Lismore Circus have been given a fresh look thanks to the young artists, who have been working with the Sir Hubert Von Herkomer Arts Foundation and Sam Sure, a graffiti artist and a singer-songwriter.
The foundation won funding from Camden Council following research by the Safer Camden Network, which showed demand for a young people’s art project to inspire creativity and pride in the local area.
Debbi Clark, the foundation’s CEO and founder, said: “We are creating and designing works of art on the Lismore Shutters with young people who live in and around the area, aged 8 to 18, bringing together young people from all backgrounds and cultures to make them proud of their surroundings and encourage positivity in the creation of their artworks.”
Lewis, 10, from Gospel Oak Primary School, said: “It has been the best fun ever. I was feeling very proud when residents and my friends came to have a look and said it looks amazing and beautiful. I don’t want this project to end because it brings lots of different children together and I can make new friends. Everyone needs new friends after the lockdown.”
Max, 8, said: “I liked doing the graffiti at Lismore Circus. I pass it every day and it makes me feel happy. I liked using the bright colours.”
Sienna, 12, said: “Doing the graffiti project has really helped me develop further in my art skills, whilst making the community look more colourful and pretty. I have really enjoyed doing this and hope that I can do more community projects.”
Rosa, 9, said: “I loved the graffiti workshop with Debbi. It was so much fun - I can’t wait to do the next one.”
Parent Aneta Hamsryszak said: “This is an inspiring project that brings the community together and creates a sense of belonging. It’s an amazing opportunity for local children to create a massive piece of art they can be proud of and to come together, no matter their age or background. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch so many children working together in harmony and showing talent beyond expectations.”
Another parent, Shoda Rackall, said: “The colourful transformation of the Lismore Circus area beside the children's playground has been very welcome. It has uplifted what were once very plain shutters. The children have very much enjoyed taking part and can admire their work when passing by on a daily basis.”
Parent Anna (Rosa's mum) said: “My daughter loved the creative experience and working outdoors with other kids of different ages. They really worked well as a team and created some amazing art. I noticed how much confidence she gained from being with a new group of children and really inspiring, engaging teachers.”
