The Mayor of Richmond upon Thames has officially revealed a new mural in the town centre that pays tribute to the borough’s landmarks, natural life and local community. The artwork, located at 20 Hill Street, is the culmination of a project commissioned by the business improvement district Be Richmond and created by London-based artist duo A&K Art (Alice and Katie).
Design draws on local scenes and personal connections
The mural is a colourful composition incorporating familiar Richmond sights and motifs. Among the elements depicted are Richmond Bridge, Richmond Theatre, the celebrated viewpoint from Richmond Hill, Richmond Park, the River Thames, a traditional black cab and a classic red post box. Native and riverside wildlife also feature prominently: herons inspired by Corporation Island appear alongside a kingfisher included as a tribute to the Wilkinson family, whose Hill Street premises house the painting.
"Richmond is home to many stories, and this new mural is a wonderful way of celebrating the people, places, character, heritage and natural beauty that make our town so distinctive and special," said Councillor Nancy Baldwin at the unveiling.
The design also incorporates a commemorative blue plaque honouring the late Ann Wilkinson. Her sons, Guy and Neil Wilkinson, collaborated with the artists to ensure personal family elements were woven into the final work.
Project partners and community response
The unveiling was attended by the Mayor, representatives from Be Richmond, local businesses and community stakeholders. Fay Cannings, Chief Executive of Be Richmond, described the completion as a proud moment and underlined the BID’s aim to enhance public spaces and strengthen Richmond’s identity.
- Location: 20 Hill Street, Richmond town centre
- Artists: A&K Art (Alice and Katie)
- Commissioned by: Be Richmond (business improvement district)
- Notable features: Local landmarks, wildlife, blue plaque to Ann Wilkinson
| Feature | Significance |
|---|---|
| Richmond Bridge | Iconic local landmark |
| Corporation Island herons | Local wildlife reference |
| Kingfisher | Tribute to the Wilkinson family |
Be Richmond have previously invested in schemes to improve the town's public realm and promote a distinct local identity; this mural forms part of that continuing programme. The new artwork now transforms one of Richmond’s busier pedestrian routes into a civic focal point intended for daily enjoyment by residents, businesses and visitors alike.
Further details about the project and any related public art initiatives are expected to be communicated by Be Richmond as they continue their town-centre improvement work.
