Titled ‘N6tur3,’ the artwork was created by renowned Italian artist Vesod as part of the global #EcosystemRestorationMural series.
A stunning 30-metre-high mural celebrating biodiversity and freshwater ecosystems has been unveiled at Regal House in Twickenham, marking a milestone in environmental awareness through public art.
Earlier this week, residents, councillors, and the Deputy Mayor of Richmond gathered alongside representatives from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and non-profit organisation Street Art for Mankind to witness the official unveiling of the mural. Titled ‘N6tur3,’ the artwork was created by renowned Italian artist Vesod as part of the global #EcosystemRestorationMural series. This initiative, supported by UNEP, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), and funding partner e.on, seeks to promote the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration—a worldwide effort to halt, prevent, and reverse the destruction of natural environments.
The mural, the first of its kind in the UK, blends elements of futurism with classical artistry, depicting key species and landscapes of Richmond upon Thames. A majestic willow tree stands at its centre, symbolising resilience and regeneration, while surrounding it are depictions of local wildlife, including the water vole—recently reintroduced to Crane Park. The artwork also features an imaginative portrayal of London as a river city, emphasising the borough’s deep-rooted connection to the Thames, the Crane, and other vital waterways. The mural envisions a future where urban life and nature coexist in harmony.
Local Twickenham Riverside ward councillors played an integral role in shaping the vision for the mural, ensuring it resonated with the borough’s strong environmental and cultural identity.
Cllr Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture, and Sports Committee, emphasised the borough’s commitment to protecting and enhancing its green spaces:
“As one of London’s greenest boroughs, Richmond supports a vast range of habitats and species. Protecting and strengthening biodiversity is a shared priority for the Council, our partners, and our residents. With 2025 marking 20 years since the launch of Richmond’s first Biodiversity Action Plan, this mural serves as an inspiring reminder of our commitment to safeguarding natural spaces for future generations.”
Cllr James Chard, Vice-Chair of the Transport and Air Quality Committee, highlighted the role of art in fostering environmental consciousness:
“Art has a unique ability to reconnect people with nature. This concept is already embedded in our community through the Cultural Reforesting programme at Orleans House Gallery. In June, our Arts & Ideas Festival will further explore this relationship, and I encourage everyone to take part.”
Visitors can delve deeper into the mural’s story by scanning a QR code near the artwork. This grants access to Behind the Wall®, a free app providing an audio guide, insights into ecosystem restoration, and commentary from the artist himself.
The unveiling of ‘N6tur3’ marks a significant step in integrating art with environmental advocacy, inspiring both residents and visitors to reflect on the urgent need to restore and protect natural ecosystems.
