A new large-scale public artwork by French artist Camille Walala has been unveiled today in White City, West London. Comprising of two uniquely-designed pedestrian crossings and seven striking murals, the artwork entitled ‘Les Jumeaux’ (‘The Twins’), can be recognised by Walala’s signature use of geometric patterns and primary colours.
With the easing of lockdown measures set to continue combined with the reopening of many local retailers and outdoor-dining destination The Set at Television Centre, White City Place welcomes the eye-catching installation to the area which transforms the pedestrian crossings on South Africa Road and Wood Lane, whilst the murals adorn the façade of the WestWorks building. With a right turn out of both Wood Lane and White City underground stations, passers-by and visitors are led by the artwork directly to White City Place which, along with the neighbouring Television Centre, has undergone extensive redevelopment into an emerging hub of activity and creativity.
Camille Walala draws inspiration from the strong functional shapes that can be found on the facades of buildings, continuing her renowned installations in the urban landscape. ‘Les Jumeaux’ brings new life to White City with the use of vibrant colours and visually arresting patterns, connecting Walala’s distinctive joyful style with the rich architectural history of the area. Beginning with drawings and collages in a sketchbook, Walala experiments with colour and pattern to develop this large-scale installation through an intuitive, artistic process.
Commissioned by Stanhope, Mitsui Fudosan and Aimco, ‘Les Jumeaux’ is Walala’s first major public outdoor artwork in West London and is part of White City Place’s wider cultural programme. Walala’s artwork follows the success of international design duo Craig & Karl’s colourful transformation of a disused petrol station on Wood Lane, and Richard Wood’s ‘Holiday Home’ in Television Centre. With its playful design and buoyant colour palette, Walala’s latest artwork will inject long-lasting energy into the community.
“This was a really exciting commission because I got to explore the area so much more than I have in the past, and bring colourful, joyful patterns to this part of London. I like when my projects begin with this element of curiosity. I was inspired by the rich architectural details and began working in my sketchbook, making drawings and collages, which grew into the bigger scale installation. It's a balancing process to find happy accidents along the way while keeping the style simple and bold.”
Camille Walala, artist
“Camille Walala’s designs are an exciting addition to the evolving cultural offering of White City. This artwork is a main feature in our wider art programme and ensures White City Place is making its mark as one of London’s emerging cultural districts, and a destination in its own right.”
David Camp, Stanhope