Illustrating Richmond’s High Street

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Place Marketing Manager
Be Richmond

An article by Be Richmond’s Place Marketing Manager, Anna Bromley about the newest addition to Richmond’s Public Art Programme, which brings Richmond Upon Thames’ unique heritage and nature to life.

A new mural created by A&K Art, has injected colour to a busy pedestrian corner between Hill Street and Castle Yard in Richmond Upon Thames. The mural celebrates the town’s rich heritage and beautiful riverside landscape.

Bringing this vision to life has been local artist duo A&K Art (Alice and Katie). Alice and Katie both grew up in the London borough of Richmond, specialising in bespoke hand-painted murals. Their vision was to create something that reflects Richmond’s unique identity while giving the community a space to feel proud of for years to come.

The mural is supported by Five Guys Richmond whose wall its graces and Eligo Wilkinson, property owner of Five Guys Richmond. Working alongside Be Richmond and the Wilkinson family, the artists carefully incorporated local stories and emotional connections into the final piece that brings a deeply personal touch to the project.

At the centre of the artwork is Richmond Bridge, surrounded by recognisable scenes including Richmond Theatre, Richmond Hill, Richmond Park, traditional London symbols, and the wildlife that defines the Thames landscape.

One particularly meaningful feature is the inclusion of a kingfisher and a commemorative blue plaque honouring the memory of the property owner’s late mother Ann Wilkinson. Ann’s sons - Guy and Neil- worked closely with the artists to incorporate personal elements into the design being painted onto the building occupied by Five Guys restaurant.

The design was officially unveiled over summer by the Mayor of Richmond during a community celebration that brought together residents, local businesses and supporters from across Richmond.

Fay Cannings, Chief Executive of Be Richmond, said:

"Seeing the mural completed is a proud moment for everyone involved. From the very beginning, our ambition was to create something that reflects Richmond's unique identity while giving residents and visitors a new landmark they can enjoy every day.

"The response from the community has already been incredibly positive. This artwork celebrates Richmond's rich heritage, its beautiful natural surroundings and the people who make the town so special. We're grateful to our partners, the artists and everyone who helped bring this vision to life."

The mural is part of a wider effort to strengthen Richmond’s sense of place and create welcoming spaces that encourage people to explore and enjoy the town centre. Be Richmond’s public art campaigns have previously bought Gillie and Marc 'Chimps are Family' art installation to Richmond’s town centre, as part of the Be Wild trail and habitat mapping.

Be Richmond has bold public art plans to further animate the town centre, celebrating its unique character while bringing people together, strengthening community cohesion, and creating vibrant shared spaces for residents, businesses and visitors alike.

Be Richmond is the Business Improvement District (BID) for Richmond town centre. We are a not-for-profit organisation, led by local businesses for local businesses, working to champion and strengthen our town.

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Anna Bromley

Place Marketing Manager
Be Richmond

Illustrating Richmond’s High Street

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