Equality, diversity and inclusion are really important to us and our hope is that this mural will be seen as a proud statement of inclusivity and part of a shared civic pride in the area. The artwork will be inspired by the LGBTQ+ community but the themes of inclusivity are global and this will be a piece of art that will be meaningful to everyone. This project is a collaboration between Corner New Cross, coffee shop and art gallery, and 34Bus a Community Interest Company (CIC), made up of graduate artists from The Lewisham School of Muralism (LSoM), with the support of Artmongers (CIC). Corner is an LGBTQ+ led business, headed up by partners Tarek Merlin (he/him) and Mark Osman-Barter (he/they), and head Barista, Libby Desborough (they/them). The artist team will be led by Alistair Leys (he/him) supported by Liv Wright (she/her), Eli King (they/them). Al lives locally and is taking inspiration from people and nightlife in the area. @cornernewcross on insta for more.

What we'll deliver:

• A fantastic new piece of street-art for the New Cross Area, inspired by the LGBTQ+ community
• An art exhibition, and community event at Corner, to display the artwork and celebrate the artists involved
• A special one-off event to tie in with the Deptford X Festival, and the London Design Festival in September
• Part of the We Are Lewisham, the Borough of Culture (BoC) programme for 2022
• The first LGBTQ+ focused artwork in the area.
• A new attraction for the local area, drawing in people from outside the immediate area, and outside the borough.

Why it's a great idea:

We believe art & culture is a great way to engage the local community, our friends and neighbours, and reinforce our shared sense of civic pride. A new large piece of art like this will create a dramatic new positive impact on our shared built environment, it will brighten up this corner and create a new focal point. The mural at Corner New Cross will become a cultural attraction that will draw people to the area, encouraging new visitors, increasing footfall, and stimulating local business. The mural will add to all the creative arts enterprises already in the area, creating an art trail locally, as well as further afield. By supporting this project you are supporting young local artists and helping to commission a new piece of public art. The new mural will bring a sense of joy to the area, adding creativity, colour, brightness, and a proud statement of inclusivity, open and welcoming to all.

Steps to get it done:

• An art exhibition, and community event at Corner, to display the artwork and celebrate the artists involved
• Purchasing all the materials, paint and equipment needed
• Executing the artwork!

Please bear in mind the artwork shown in the image is at an early stage of development and although it's indicative of the design intent, it will change as the concept develops. We will be hosting an exhibition of the artwork at Corner in September and we will be posting about it on our social @cornenewcross on insta.