Hammersmith & Fulham has refreshed the Macbeth Street and Nigel Playfair underpasses with artwork designed by local creatives and inspired by H&F’s communities and heritage
Hammersmith & Fulham Council has installed new artwork in two Hammersmith underpasses. It’s part of our work to beautify public spaces around H&F’s new Civic Campus and to improve the visual connections and visitors’ journeys between King Street and the riverside.
Artists were invited to respond to the borough’s heritage, inspired by the work of William Morris, whose Hammersmith home is located on Upper Mall.
The winning artists – Yati Sharma and Lisa Pfeiffer – were selected by a panel including representatives of Arts Council England, Koestler Arts and the William Morris Society.
Sharon Holder, H&F Cabinet Member for Public Realm, said, ‘’It’s been fantastic to work with local artists to transform these under-loved underpasses into huge pieces of eye-catching art. I invite everyone to take the time to see their fresh new looks when you’re walking along the river in Hammersmith. Extra points if you can spot the links to legendary Arts & Crafts designer William Morris.”
Indian artist and Royal College of Art student Yati Sharma’s Wings of Belonging is located in the Macbeth Street underpass.
Her work explores culture and identity. Taking a migrant’s point of view, her finished work depicts pigeons living their individual lives in the borough, alongside other residents.
“This mural celebrates diversity and cultural heritage of H&F,” she said.
“The idea for the mural is based on my journey of navigating and understanding the lifestyle here and getting familiar with important elements of British history such as William Morris and the Thames. It gives a sense of positive energy for the viewer to start their day by noticing these small things in life.”
Before studying at the Royal College of Art, Yati completed a bachelor’s degree in design at Delhi Technological University. She has worked displayed at the Television Centre in White City and the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi, India.
Nigel Playfair underpass
The Nigel Playfair underpass, also known as the Unity Way underpass, has undergone a fresh new look too. The artwork is titled Moving Morris and was designed by Californian H&F resident, artist Lisa Pfeiffer.
The mural is inspired by Morris’s well known chrysanthemum wallpaper design. The design transforms into a modern interpretation which includes the recognisable landmark arches of the Civic Campus. “This concept unites past and present, showcasing how Morris’s 1877 design still influences and inspires us in 2024,” said Lisa.
“I have collected Morris’s fabrics and incorporated them into my art, drawing inspiration from his work and aiming to create more with his influence in mind. This mural embodies his spirit, allowing both residents and visitors to experience his enduring presence.”
Lisa specialises in flower-themed, gold leaf pieces and works at Kindred Studios, Shepherds Bush. This isn’t her first William Morris inspired work. Four years ago, she worked at Kelmscott House and used his printing press.
Lisa earned her BFA from the Rhode Island School of Design in 1995. She went on to study painting in Florence, receiving a Post Baccalaureate from SACI, and has also studied in Germany and Prague.
Bright new look
Transport for London (TfL), who owns both underpasses, has supported the project and paid for the installation of new lights along both walkways. Darrell Bawn, TfL Asset Operations, said: “This collaboration between TfL and Hammersmith & Fulham is a celebration of creativity and community. By integrating art into our shared spaces, we aim to inspire, connect, and enrich the daily experiences of residents and visitors alike to the new Civic Campus.
