A THIRD mural has been painted in Reading as part of a community project.
Artist Gemma Anusa has installed a display on Oxford Road to honour the area’s “diverse and rich culture”.
The work, in Reading’s High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) area, is part of the ongoing pilot scheme ‘Reimagining the High Street Through Your Stories’.
The programme, which is funded by Historic England, launched to celebrate local heritage.
Ms Anusa, who lives on Oxford Road, said the project is extremely important to her.
“I really do believe it is misunderstood in many ways, and I believe that art is the perfect way to bring us all together especially during these times,” she said.
Her mural includes a face featuring a gradient of skin tones. Called ‘Through Your Eyes’, it also includes a series of quotes, important dates, times and significant moments in the history of Oxford Road and its community.
“My idea creates a stamp on the historical moments of the Oxford Road and the untold stories from people within the local communities,” Ms Anusa explained.
“It will be a celebration of co-creation within the local community, from getting to know local shop and businesses owners, to talking with long term residents of the road and implementing the knowledge that we already know.
“Each story will be recorded, allowing them to feel represented and heard in such a diverse and multicultural area, which is so important.”
Cllr Karen Rowland, lead for culture, heritage and recreation at Reading Borough Council, said she is “delighted” to see Oxford Road celebrated in the latest artwork.
Three other artists, Caroline Streatfield, Baker Street Productions and Arron Lowe, have already contributed to the heritage programme.
“Each of our initial pilot artists has reflected beautifully Reading’s bid for City Status this year, highlighting Reading as one of the most multi-cultural towns in the south-east outside of London through portraying our diverse cultural pedigree and our vast array of cultural talent,” Cllr Rowland said.
“Each of the artists involved in this project has brought a unique and creative concept to the table and the variety they have offered have all complimented each other well.
She added: “As an Oxford Road area resident myself, I am truly excited by how this explosion of artwork has enriched the area.
“I have always been captivated by the rich tapestry and diversity of the Oxford Road and through the expressions of these artists I hope more people will come to appreciate it as I have and discover its uniquely diverse heritage and flavour.”
Ms Anusa’s mural with feature on the railings of Battle Street Car Park.
