Threads in Common: new mural unveiled at 67 Mortimer Street

A striking new 13.5-metre mural, Threads in Common by emerging artist Oliwia Bober, has transformed a three-storey blank wall at 67 Mortimer Street in Fitzrovia Quarter into a vibrant celebration of the neighbourhood’s creativity, history, and communities. The first newly commissioned mural in Fitzrovia in over 40 years, it marks a significant moment for public art in the area. Commissioned by The Langham Estate, the work reflects the area’s past while bringing contemporary life and energy to the streetscape, reinforcing the Estate’s commitment to placemaking, public art, and supporting local artists and community initiatives.

Following an open competition earlier this year, Oliwia Bober’s proposal was selected by The Langham Estate from a shortlist recommended by a review panel of local stakeholders for its thoughtful balance of Fitzrovia Quarter’s rich historic character and the energy of its contemporary businesses. Earlier this year, she also engaged with the local community through a London Festival of Architecture workshop, helping to shape the mural’s connection to the neighbourhood and its story of collective effort.

The mural pays homage to the women who powered the local garment industry in the 19th and early 20th centuries, while also reflecting today’s Fitzrovia Quarter as a place of discovery, connection, and dynamism. Inspired by the changing light on the building and the surrounding architectural palette – from the turquoise tiles of Grade II listed Radiant House to the deep red brick of neighbouring buildings – the mural combines intricate patterns, vibrant colour, and storytelling motifs. The result is a visual tapestry that invites close inspection and contemplation.

“My intention for the work is to reflect the beauty of collective effort over individualism, celebrating a place that owes so much to the communities who shaped it. The mural also recognises the women who powered the local garment trade, while reflecting contemporary Fitzrovia. I’m excited to see how people respond to the new artwork on the streetscape,” says Oliwia Bober.

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Greg Hutcheson, Brand & Marketing Manager at The Langham Estate, adds:

“Oliwia’s thought-provoking concept stood out for us as a careful blend of Fitzrovia Quarter’s historic setting with the energy of contemporary businesses. The mural enhances the streetscape and has been designed sustainably to remain a meaningful part of the community for years to come.”

Celebrating Fitzrovia Quarter's creative community

To coincide with the mural, Fitzrovia Quarter hosted The Artist’s Corner, a three-day pop-up exhibition at 55 Eastcastle Street. As curator Lydia Allain Chapman explains:

“This exhibition is a collective effort on the part of Fitzrovia Quarter’s creative communities. At its heart is a drive to support and champion emerging artists. In celebration of Threads in Common, the neighbourhood’s galleries and artists have come together to produce a group show that is inspiring and eclectic, capturing Fitzrovia’s creative spirit. You are invited to discover the work of young and established artists and find new ways to engage creatively with identity and place. Your journey continues outside the gallery, in discovery of the exhibitions, public art and architecture found in this unique corner of London.”

The exhibition featured further works by Oliwia Bober alongside contributions from local galleries and cultural partners, including Pontone Gallery, Ab-Anbar Gallery, ST.ART Gallery, Eclectic Gallery, the Cartoon Museum, and Fitzrovia Chapel, bringing together works from 20 artists. The gallery presented a vibrant mix of works on paper, canvas, photography, textiles, and installations, many of which explored themes of identity, craft, and the textures of the built environment – echoing the mural’s focus on community and heritage.

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