Local artists have come to the aid of a much neglected Lambeth street.
The Norwood High Street Art Trail opened yesterday and tomorrow (19 March) a guided walk will enable local people to meet some of the street’s retailers and see beautiful art without visiting a gallery.
Norwood High Street is just a bus ride from Brixton and not to be confused with West Norwood town centre which lies immediately to the North of it.
It passes through Lambeth’s largest industrial area and has been in the news because of highly controversial plans to site a large metal sorting plant in a cul de sac off the street.
“Norwood High Street has been neglected for so long that local retailers and a group of talented artists from West Norwood, North London, Streatham and Norwood School are collaborating to brighten the place up with an art trail,” said one of the organisers.
“The aim is to let people know that the retailers are trying to be more connected to the community.
“Hopefully the street will begin to thrive again when the community notices little activities that the retailers host in their shops and on the street
The art trail runs until 17 April.
Creations on show include paintings, sculptures and hanging art. Artists taking part include Martin Grover, a prize winner at the annual Brixton Blog and Bugle art show.
To join Saturday’s guided walk, just turn up at the South London Theatre (2A Norwood High Street, SE27 9NS) at 2pm, You can register with Eventbrite.
As well as seeing the art on show, walkers will get to know the retailers and hear about the art and its inspiration from Jane Millar and other artists who are keen to see Norwood High Street thrive.
The walk is not the only way to participate in the campaign for the high street. You can sign up to model for a fashion show to be hosted by Zeeks Concept.
Some participating retailers will welcome walkers with special offers including salon discounts and food samples.
To round off the day, you can join Freddie Adamson who will host a kite making workshop at the Hope pub (49 Norwood High Street, SE27 9JS).
The artists whose work is on show are: Katy Edelsten; Anoushka Cole; Jane Millar; Luana Asiata; Natalie Cooper; Freddie Adamson; pupils from The Norwood School; Martin Grover; Khaila Williams; and Yair Meshoulam.
Sponsors and supporters of the trail include Station to Station Business Improvement District, Ryan Spence and Maureen Anderson.
