Three local high street shops have had their shutters painted to help promote their wares and make our streets look more attractive.
Fulham Cycles in Wandsworth Bridge Road, Naama in Uxbridge Road and its neighbour, speciality nut roaster Nut Case, have each had their shutters painted.
The artwork was co-designed between local artists and each business and then painted for free – thanks to Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
Tasty bites for Naama
Lebanese restaurant and butcher Naama is a firm local favourite for its kebabs, wraps and butcher counter in Uxbridge Road. It also features prominently in our list of recommended Shepherds Bush restaurants.
Naama's newly decorated shutter is covered in pictures of giant Lebanese treats being carried by people. It was painted by Nicky Raysa de Tania, an artist studying at the Royal College of Art from their White City campus.
Shop owner Mac worked with Nicky over a couple of weeks to perfect the design which has covered up graffiti that had previously been sprayed onto the shopfront.
"Thank you to everyone who made the creation of this wonderful piece of art possible," said Mac.
"Over the years we've had to keep respraying to remove graffiti and on top of the costs involved, it is hard and time-consuming work. I hope the project spreads across the high street and helps other small businesses."
While Nicky said: "It was so rewarding to be part of a project that puts art into the public eye.
"It's so clear that Naama is a beloved local restaurant and I was really delighted to design a concept that Mac and his team loved. I hope that captures a bit of the magic of their food."
Going nuts
Down the road, artist and Hammersmith resident Andrew Hulme painted a new shutter design for shop Nut Case in Uxbridge Road.
You'll be able to spot the Shepherds Bush store thanks to its newly painted giant cartoon squirrel – which is playfully pulling a trailer filled with giant nuts and wearing a black hat and striped scarf.
"It's a great look for our shop when closed," said shop owner Khalil. "It brings some lovely colour to the area."
While artist Andrew said: "It was such a fun project to work on. I grew up in H&F and it was a great feeling to be able to give back to the neighbourhood through my art."
Wheely great art
In Wandsworth Bridge Road, Fulham Cycles has also had a fresh coat of paint.
The shutter – designed by artist Rutu Shelke who also studies at the Royal College of Art in White City – depicts cyclists racing up and down green hills.
"We were delighted to be involved in this initiative," said shop founder Atif. "It was the perfect opportunity to transform our security shutter into a mural that beautifully portrays London's love of cycling. We were very happy with the results."
While artist Rutu said: "I am huge advocate for public art. Shutters are a perfect canvas for turning a retail street into something more colourful and engaging for locals and visitors alike."
More shutters to come
We're working with more shops along H&F high streets to deliver new shutter art. Keep your eyes peeled for a new painting near you.
Want to get your store involved? Contact our business support team via our H&F Business Helpdesk.
