'Remarkable diversity' in new artworks unveiled on Slough High Street

Slough High Street has become a ‘canvas of creativity’ after new artworks were unveiled at the weekend.

Around 18 artists poured their creativity into adorning lampposts with thought-provoking artwork inspired by themes of diversity and the environment.

The Artscape Project driven by Slough BID and Slough Hub hosted a grand unveiling on Saturday, September 30 featured a dhol procession followed by refreshments.

Founder of Slough Hub, Vineet Vijh said: “Each artist was unveiling their work and the general comments were it’s brightening up the High Street, it’s something that was needed and they welcomed the change.”

Slough Hub made an open call for artists on social media and contacted the 43 artists who had previously exhibited at the Love Slough Art Festival last year.

Vineet said: “What was quite remarkable was the diversity of the artists – the oldest being 80 and the youngest being 16, and every single ethnic group represented.

“We’re trying to change perceptions, and the narrative of what Slough is about, and just adding a bit of colour, and bringing positivity among the residents.

“We’re hoping to do another 50 of these.”

The unveiling event saw High Sheriff of Berkshire, Simon Muir, mayor of Slough Councillor Amjad Abassi, Slough BID directors and shop owners in attendance as well as the artists and their family and friends.

The project was kicked off by a corporate volunteering day, where volunteers from HSBC and Eqinix on Slough High Street dedicated a day to cleaning, preparing, and applying a base layer of paint to all lampposts.

One artist, Malvika Bose said: “This was my first time going out in public and painting something. I was a bit hesitant but I took on the challenge and I was so surprised by the reaction from people, they were so encouraging and said such nice things.”

Malvika’s artwork, inspired by Indian folk art and the use of colour, featured bright motifs of nature and butterflies to attract children.

“Slough has got a bad name but I don’t agree. The community is very welcoming.”