Introduction:
It can be easy to dismiss Kingston-upon-Thames as purely having a high street and river views.
But as the summer heatwaves finally pass, I encourage you to go and explore the town's flourishing art scene.
And what better way to do that than with a self-guided walking tour?
With nine engaging stops, this trip is sure to thoroughly engage your creative side...
Stanley Picker Gallery:
Our informative and exciting tour starts at Kingston University's Stanley Picker Gallery.
The exhibitions are constantly changing, and it is thrilling to watch local artists breathing life into the gallery's large, open-plan space.
As the gallery is unfortunately closed during the summer, now is the perfect time to visit its stunning collection.
'Paper Trail':
The artwork was designed by students, after a borough design competition.
It brings a touch of joy to the urbanised environment, with the upwards spiral encouraging modern thinking, optimism and continuous development and discovery.
Kingston History Centre:
The third stop on our journey is Kingston History Centre.
The centre features 79 artworks, all depicting recognisable town scenes.
As GCSE Art student Isabel Molnar-Evans says, this centre is "fascinating", adding that "it is wonderful to see your hometown depicted in such intricate brushstrokes".
'Party Animal':
Made by locally-based sculptor Alex R T Davies, the sculpture is playful and fun.
Be sure to take a selfie with the goat, who has become somewhat of a local celebrity!
Street Artwork:
It celebrates the community's identity, and certainly resonates with many residents.
Mahira Narvekar, frequent visitor to the town centre, says that the street art is "really intricate" and that "street art is cool and appealing to younger shoppers".
'Out of Order'
'Out of Order', located at the western end of Old London Road, features London's famous red telephone boxes in a tumbling structure.
David Mach's sculpture boasts 12 repurposed phone boxes, and pays homage to Giles Gilbert Scott's legendary design.
Kseniya Matteen, student at Surbiton High School, commented that "it is thrilling to live near such an iconic art installation".
Some advice: don't forget a camera!
Mosaic at Kingston Train Station:
Kingston Station: bustling transport hub for commuters.
What many rail passengers may miss is the stunning mosaics only next door.
Made of tiny, shining mosaic tiles, the scene brings joy to the rush hour.
Bentalls Shopping Centre:
This memorable day out wouldn't be complete without a visit to the gift shop.
Bentalls Shopping Centre is a huge, sprawling complex that attracts fourteen million visitors a year.
I urge all of these merry shoppers to spend a moment to appreciate the incredible shopping centre.
Complete with quoins, incredible carvings and huge windows, Bentalls is a titan in the architectural world.
This tour takes you straight to the department store, giving you time to sketch and take photos of the stunning building. And of course, there will be time for a quick spot of shopping!
FUSEBOX:
Armed with some incredible inspiration, visit FUSEBOX, a welcoming space for emerging young artists.
After exploring their outstanding installations, you may even inquire about how to get involved with the project!
Closing Comments:
As Kingston's public art installations continue to inspire, I hope that this tour has encouraged you to explore your own creative talents, as well as to gain further appreciation for our incredible, culturally-rich town.
(Please note that Kingston's public installations are constantly changing and this tour may need adapting for the current collection.)
