Led by community art experts Co-Creative Connection, and funded by train company Govia Thameslink Railway’s (GTR’s) ‘Your Station, Your Community’ improvement fund, the vibrant multi-patterned artwork has been designed by young local people. Ten 14-to-15-year-olds took part in workshops led by Co-Creative’s founder Rose Hill, an artist specialising in the organisation and production of community projects.
Arsenal in the Community, the football club’s community support arm, recruited the teenagers from the nearby City of London Academy Highbury Grove, and hosted the workshops at the Arsenal Hub, close to the station and the Emirates Stadium.
Working overnight last weekend to avoid affecting station operation, Rose herself has installed the part-vinyl, part-painted mural in a previously drab and dingy area inside the station’s main entrance. She has used the young local artists’ designs to create an exciting public artwork that celebrates both the diversity and togetherness of the area.
Mark Pavlides, GTR’s Chief Customer Officer, said: “At GTR we are proud to work with community partners and are impressed with the fantastic artwork here. Thanks to our partners, Co-Creative Connection and Arsenal football club, for bringing everyone together to make this project a success. The real credit, however, goes to all the artists for bringing their creativity to this work. Their amazing contributions mean that our Finsbury Park mural truly represents and belongs to the community.
“We’re honoured to be able to display the mural at the station. It bonds our colleagues who work here with the community we serve, and I expect it to be a lasting, valuable legacy for the people of Finsbury Park.”
Rose Hill said: "Our workshops at the Arsenal Community Hub and final co-designed mural showcased incredible creativity. Murals are such an amazing way to bring a community together, and we love adding colour to transform an area into a joyful space. It's incredible seeing people of all ages, abilities, and walks of life taking part - that's what Co-Creative Connection is all about, bringing people together to learn, create and paint.
“This vibrant co-designed mural at Finsbury Park Station is a perfect example - a beautiful reflection of the creativity and contribution of the participants who helped bring it to life. This artwork embodies the spirit of Finsbury Park’s diverse and united community, celebrating togetherness and diversity. It's a shining testament to the power of collaboration and we’re excited to share it with you. Please visit it and take a look at everyone’s creativity.”
Muaad, one of the young artists, said: “I'm most proud of my drawing. I think it will represent the youth of Finsbury Park and Islington.”
Ibrahim, a fellow design contributor, said: “My favourite part of the workshop was doing the activities with the people I know - it was fun. I think it'll mean a lot to the Finsbury Park community, like we are all one and together we’re stronger.”
Freddie Hudson, Head of Arsenal in the Community said: “Arsenal is a club with deep-rooted relationships in our community, and our local work remains at the heart of everything we do. We’re pleased to come together with GTR and Co-Creative Connection on this project alongside some of our local talented young people. This project adds to the sense of connection and belonging that our local community has with our club and our place in Islington.”
