A Brixton street has been renamed Van Gogh Walk in honour of its former resident.
The street will be officially opened on Saturday, March 30, on the birthday of its namesake.
Vincent Van Gogh lodged in Hackford Road, round the corner from Isabel Street in 1873-74, while working as an art dealer in Covent Garden.
Working with Lambeth council, residents group Streets Ahead launched the Grass Routes project to transform the area around Isabel Street.
Grass Routes chairwoman Elaine Kramer said: “This project has transformed a little-used backstreet where some had been scared to walk at night.
“Now it’s a fantastic community street for all neighbours to share. The campaigning, consultation, planning and hard work have been worth it and we are proud to be making our streets greener, safer and more pleasant for everyone.
“The new name for this inspiring new space puts our area on the map for positive reasons.”
His time there, including his unrequited love for his landlady’s daughter and his walks to work in central London, was documented in the play Vincent In Brixton.
Cllr Imogen Walker, cabinet member for environment and sustainability, said: “This project is a great example of residents and the council working together in a truly co-operative way, and has delivered not only a cleaner, greener and safer street for our current residents, but also one that honours one of the borough’s most famous past inhabitants.
“Vincent Van Gogh is part of Lambeth’s rich cultural background, and I’m delighted that we have been able to commemorate him like this, while making the area even better for the local community.”
Saturday’s celebration and official opening of the road will also be marked by music, dance, street art/performance, sunflower crafts and more, featuring children from two local primary schools.
The street party will take place between 12pm and 4pm in Van Gogh Walk (was Isabel Street), SW9 0RE on Saturday March 30. For more information see www.vangoghwalk.org
