Tower Bridge draws crowds for aspiring East End artists

Artists living and working close to Tower Bridge have been chosen to exhibit in a year-long rolling exhibition at the iconic landmark.

The ‘Local Art at the Bridge’ exhibition reflects the landmark and the Thames from the artists’ perspective.

“London is one of the art world’s most vibrant and culturally diverse hubs,” said Tower Bridge director David Wight.

“So giving exposure to some of these artists in such a spectacular setting as Tower Bridge with so many visitors is a privilege. It gives a high profile for artists who live and work in the area.”

The brief for artists in Tower Hamlets and Southwark is to harmonize the bridge with the river and its surroundings, past, present and future, while reflecting the character of the communities living there.

Brian Williams, who lives within walking distance of Tower Bridge, is influenced by Picasso in his soft cubist style, like his ‘Figures in Pinks’ (pictured top). Women are his main focus, but family and children are also part of his compositions.

Chris Vervain’s ‘Hustle Bustle’ (second picture) creates a movement in force, action and connection. She draws inspiration from the Thames, dark and mysterious, carrying secret histories with older, grimy streets and alleys hidden from the bustling crowds, while underneath is a labyrinth of tunnels that tell tales of brutality, neglect and ruthless ambition that is part of the ever-changing London scene.

The artists are exhibiting until October.