These energetic 1960s murals, created by artist William Mitchell, are located inside the entrances of each of the two tower blocks in Foxborough Gardens, Lewisham. They are part of a major post-war scheme by the London County Council to place artworks around schools, public buildings and estates to bring London’s communities together after the trauma of the Second World War.

 

One mural is made from offcuts of wood and bits of old furniture, arranged and glued to a baseboard to make a mosaic, then liquid resin poured in the gaps. The other mural is made from concrete that has been carved to create the abstract patterns. The bright colours of the concrete mural were added later at an unknown date. Children from Beecroft Garden Primary School helped repaint the concrete mural as part of the restoration.

 

 

Over 240 young people  visited the murals during the restoration works and learnt about William Mitchell’s practice. The conservators explained the restoration process and gave demonstrations so the children could learn about conservation techniques, heritage careers and see the conservation work in action.  . 

Proud Places workshops produced a range of creative responses, including miniature clay murals, recycled cardboard mosaics, and mini wooden murals, which allowed young people to explore William Mitchell's creative processes.

 

The young people  connected to the theme of public art and Mitchell's vision for art that can be touched and enjoyed as part of everyday life.