Camille Walala Cements Her Spot at Canary Wharf – 20.10.20

The artist’s captivating transformation of Adams Plaza Bridge becomes the latest addition to the Estate’s permanent public art collection.

Camille Walala’s reimagining of Adams Plaza Bridge at Canary Wharf will officially join the Estate’s award-winning permanent public art collection of over 75 mesmerising pieces. After transforming the bridge into a showstopping highlight for the inaugural London Mural Festival, Walala will now feature as one of over 50 world-renowned artists and craftsmen whose work permanently decorates Canary Wharf.

A resident of East London for over 20 years, Walala’s work is right at home in this vibrant area of the capital. The hypnotic design sees Adams Plaza Bridge wrapped in bold geometric shapes and colours. Visitors’ perceptions of the piece will change throughout the day, as daylight and darkness seeps through to alter the visuals inside the structure. Inspired by the architectural details of the striking bridge, Walala’s vision used the tunnel-like form as a canvas to transform the space into an eye-catching backdrop.

The French artist, who has a signature style of bright colours, innovative silhouettes, and patterns that pop, is a welcome addition to the array of inspiring creatives that already feature on the Estate. Canary Wharf is home to many celebrated artists and their work, including Helaine Blumenfeld’s ‘LOOKING UP’ sculpture showcase, beautiful displays of architectural glass by Alexander Beleschenko, and William Turnbull’s striking Blade of Venus.

Walala’s installation is the perfect accompaniment to the existing green spaces and impressive skyline of the Canary Wharf estate. Visitors are invited to enjoy the captivating colours whilst reconnecting with loved ones and friends at Canary Wharf’s hundreds of bars, restaurants and shops.

Camille Walala said: “East London means so much to me. I have lived here for over 20 years and my project in Shoreditch launched my career. I’m so happy I could put my own stamp on the iconic Canary Wharf.

This is also my first bridge! Adams Plaza Bridge is a fascinating structure, so I wanted to use what was there as a canvas. The architecture of the long tunnel-like bridge is really inspiring, and I wanted to accentuate the feeling of this exaggerated perspective. The palette and patterns create a sense of movement and surprise. I hope it brings a smile to all of the people that will pass it every day.”

Lucie Moore, Head of Arts + Events, Canary Wharf Group, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce artwork from one of the world’s most exciting contemporary artists into our ever-growing permanent art collection. It’s an ambitious install and never has the bridge been brought to life in such a way before. We hope visitors are inspired as they visit Canary Wharf with friends, family and co-workers.”

Canary Wharf is home to one of the UK’s largest collections of public art. For visitors making their way back onto the Estate, full social distancing measures have been put in place to make it accessible and safe.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office
Canary Wharf Group plc
T: 020 7418 2166
E: pressoffice@canarywharf.com

Notes to Editors

About Canary Wharf Group

Canary Wharf Group has overseen the largest urban regeneration project in Europe and is a fully integrated private real estate company that develops, manages and currently owns interests in approximately 7.7 million square feet of office space, 0.9 million square feet of retail and 327 completed Build to Rent units.

The company’s current £3.8 billion development pipeline is composed of 1.0 million square feet of office/retail properties, and over 3,500 new homes: for sale, for rent, intermediate and affordable. It currently has 2.7 million square feet under construction today, and 2.5 million square feet in planning, with a further planning opportunity for North Quay of 3.8 million square feet for mixed use development.

Canary Wharf Group is an industry leader in sustainability including purchasing 100% renewable electricity for the Estate since 2012 and zero waste going to landfill from the managed Estate since 2009.

www.canarywharf.com
Instagram: @canarywharflondon
Twitter: @YourCanaryWharf
Twitter: @CanaryWharfGrp
Twitter: @Level39CW

About Camille Walala

Born in France, based in East London and working worldwide, Camille Walala is an artist who takes joy seriously. Known for ambitious and large-scale interventions in public spaces from Mayfair to Mauritius, she uses the man-made landscape as a platform for disseminating positivity. Her work encompasses full-facade murals, immersive 3D installations, street art, interiors and set design – characterised by a fusion of bold colours and playful geometric patterns. Camille finds inspiration in community and collaboration, and the power or colour and pattern to transform atmospheres, elevate moods and spark positivity.

www.camillewalala.com
Instagram: @camillewalala