Street Art Takeover: Three New Murals Transforming Lewisham for Brockley Max
Street Art Takeover: Three New Murals Transforming Lewisham for Brockley Max
The vibrant spirit of the annual Brockley Max festival is spilling across the borough in a wave of fresh paint. This year, three prominent public murals are being brought to life by local artists, offering distinct visual landmarks across Ladywell, Brockley, and central Lewisham.
The three-part community art project relies on a collaborative blend of local festival organising, independent businesses, and community funding to inject bold new colour into everyday neighbourhoods.
1. Ladywell Playtower Gates by BarnieXYZ
In the heart of Ladywell, artist BarnieXYZ has transformed the heavy gates of the historic, Grade II-listed Ladywell Playtower. Funded entirely by the Ladywell Society, this eye-catching piece pairs bold, abstract floral patterns with an outline of the Playtower’s iconic gothic window.
The mural brightens up a beloved neighborhood structure while celebrating the area’s rich architectural heritage.
2. Pistachio’s Cafe by OrbitLDN
Moving into the neighbourhood spaces, artist OrbitLDN is bringing a fresh design to the exterior wall of Pistachio’s Cafe. Jointly funded by Pistachio’s Cafe and Brockley Max, this mural represents a true community-business partnership. The artwork aims to enhance the local cafe culture, creating a vibrant visual backdrop for residents stopping by for their morning coffee.
3. Lewisham Shopping Centre by Molly Hankinson
In central Lewisham, acclaimed artist and illustrator Molly Hankinson has taken on a massive urban canvas at the Lewisham Shopping Centre. Known for her highly stylistic, inclusive, and empowering depictions of community figures, Hankinson’s piece injects an expansive burst of modern illustration directly into one of the borough’s busiest commercial hubs.
A Celebration of Local Identity
The murals represent a core mission of the Brockley Max festival: making art free, accessible, and deeply tied to the community.
“Public art changes how we interact with our streets every day,” says the festival organiser Moira Tait. “By embedding these works into historic sites, local businesses, and busy shopping precincts, we’re building a visual legacy that outlasts the festival week.”
Be sure to keep an eye out for the artists as they put the finishing touches on their pieces over the course of the festival!