Canary Wharf expands its public art collection

Canary Wharf continues to expand its collection of public art, introducing six stunning new pieces to the Estate’s already impressive collection - creating an ‘open air gallery’ for people to enjoy. With an ever-growing portfolio of over 75 permanent works by over 50 world-renowned artists and crafts people, Canary Wharf has one of the UK’s largest collections of public art that is free to enjoy in the green spaces of the Estate.

Art plays a crucial role at Canary Wharf and the Estate’s curators strongly believe in its power to create a sense of space and belonging. Canary Wharf’s cultural masterplan draws on a rollcall of modern artistic talent and the latest works are no different.

Among the newest additions is the newly acquired Scribbleform by Birmingham-born artist Julian Wild, now one of the largest sculptures on the Estate, at an impressive 10 metres, in a stunning red and weighing three tonnes. Also proudly displayed is The Clew by Ottotto, a minimal and elegant structure formed of 100 circles of red light and a highlight from Canary Wharf’s Winter Lights 2020 festival.

Other new artworks include Metamorphosis, by Helaine Blumenfeld OBE, which was exclusively commissioned by Canary Wharf Group to be placed in the new residential district, Wood Wharf. The four-metre bronze sculpture joins previously commissioned piece Fortuna (2016) also by Helaine Blumenfeld, located in Jubilee Park. Meanwhile, contemporary street artist and East London resident Camille Walala’s bold transformation of Adams Plaza Bridge has been absorbed into the permanent art collection after its debut at the inaugural London Mural Festival.

The extensive collection showcases decades of creative freedom which is featured in the artists’ works. This is evident through their use of materials and mediums; from brass to bronze, marble to wood, the vast structures of all shapes and sizes impose themselves on the Estate. The covid-secure art programme unites art and nature - integrating the iconic scenery of Canary Wharf and creating an open-air gallery accessible to all.
Canary Wharf has a long and rich history with art and has introduced works onto the Estate for the last 30 years. Canary Wharf’s founding objective continues to be to take an inclusive approach to art, making world-famous works available to the general public for free. Canary Wharf has ensured its collection encompasses a mix of standalone sculptures, integrated art-architectural works, and artist-designed functional pieces.
Sir George Iacobescu CBE, Executive Chairman, Canary Wharf Group, said: “Art is a crucial part of the sense of place at Canary Wharf. Through the many exhibitions we host, our permanent and award-winning public art collection, and the architecture of our iconic buildings - art and design surrounds you as soon as you arrive. It is an important way of inspiring and engaging our residents, visitors and the workers on the Canary Wharf estate.”

“It is very important to us that all of our public art is accessible for local residents and for visitors from across London, especially in these difficult times.”

“That is why we have added pieces to our outdoor sculpture and installations, and we have extended our free indoor exhibitions to ensure that people can continue to enjoy the works of some of the best British and international artists safely.”

Each piece featured at Canary Wharf has been carefully curated, with location and accessibility front of mind.

Non-essential shops at Canary Wharf are due to open in-line with government guidance on Wednesday 2nd December. In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the free outdoors public art trail.