What if construction sites weren’t ‘apologies for the current works’ but invitations? What if, instead of hiding behind branded hoardings or dismal white sheeting, buildings in transition became temporary galleries?
Currently visible on New Bond Street is an artwork by artist Stefania Tejada. In this instance, her work is wildly enlarged and wrapped around a building going through a refurbishment. Stefania’s works explore the intersections of race, class, gender and cultural memory through a deeply personal connection to nature.
Royal London Asset Management Property commissioned Marine Tanguy and her team to create a bespoke public artwork for their Mayfair Quarter. A choice that bypasses both generic construction screening and the predictable monetisation of captive audiences through advertising.
From a sustainability perspective; The ambition extends beyond aesthetics. Each panel is treated with a photocatalytic coating that responds to UV light, triggering a chemical reaction that breaks down nitrogen oxides and other pollutants on contact. The surface effectively cleans the surrounding air while simultaneously cleaning itself. Organic matter and grime are oxidised and washed away by rain. It’s the same technology deployed on contemporary glazed architecture, now repurposed for temporary installations.
This is all just a beautiful way to encourage conversation. It gives us a break from being sold to constantly and introduces a new narrative which can replace the unsightly views or building wraps which can be present for years whilst refurbishment works are taking place.
