Artistic hoarding representing the past and future brightens up Wembley Park

Wembley Park's new hoarding took three weeks to complete. Photo credit : Chris Winter / Wembley Park (Image: © Chris Winter 07970108312 chris@chriswinter.co.uk)

The art, which can be seen along Olympic Way, represents significant events in the history of the area from its foundation as a pleasure park by Sir Edward Watkin in 1894 up to the present day.

Laura Roberts, Meredith Owens and Jessica Morris who form the artistic team Brij, had only three weeks to hand draw and paint the hoardings which are 110.8metres by 3.6metres.

They have included the opening of the Metropolitan line, the British Empire Exhibition of the 1920’s and Wembley’s sporting heritage.

It also captures the recent regeneration in the area and gives an artist’s view of Elvin Square Gardens, the one acres new green space which will be built next to the hoardings by next year, open to the public.

Ms Morris said: “We were looking to find a middle ground between being interesting, fun and bright, but also sophisticated and beautiful. This is very much part of the art deco style. All the tube posters of the Thirties, particularly of the Metropolitan line, have a really beautiful, strong aesthetic.”

She added: “No one believed we would complete it in three weeks. We even made a bet with someone. I remember seeing the big blank space the first time we came here. I think it was a bit of a surprise for all of us! We are very proud to have been played a part in capturing Wembley Park’s rich history in this way.”

James Saunders, COO of Quintain, the developers behind Wembley Park’s regeneration, said: “With the development of this iconic area comes a strong sense of responsibility to maintain and build on its rich heritage. The artists have done a fantastic job capturing the spirit of this place right back from its foundations, up to the present day.”

The art was commissioned by Hunt & Gather, a design and delivery practice.