HOUSING
Rachel Pepper on
the mural bench
Acton’s show homes
A huge bird of prey, sea creatures, bright colours, historical murals; South Acton is
brighter than ever thanks to an urban art project that has brought grey buildings
to life and made ‘a big difference to people’s daily lives.’ Phil Brent reports.
A
RTification (formerly Acton
Arts Forum) has been co-
ordinating the project at
South Acton estate, which
is being radically modernised in a
20-year regeneration scheme called
Acton Gardens. The intention of
the art was to keep a connection to
the past, as well as brightening the
site up, while the extensive building
work took place.
The art group has led the
community’s choice of the 20 pieces
of public art so far through workshops
with residents and artists, and liaising
with Ealing Council. Hundreds
16
around ealing December 2018
of people have been involved and
Rachel Pepper, director of ARTification,
said its success has come from being
rooted in the community in this way.
“We have had so many residents and
people passing by telling us how much
they like the painting and appreciate
it being there,” said Rachel. “It makes
a big difference to their daily lives
and cheers them up.”
TREE OF LIFE RELIVES HISTORY
One of the most well-known
pieces of the art was particularly
designed in this way and sits
beside South Acton station. The
‘Tree of Life’ highlights the area’s
heritage and local community,
as well as harking back to the
origins of the town’s name, which
Big yellow ‘bird man’