London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
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London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
London-based artist and paramedic Charly Helyar unveils her latest large-scale public artwork in Cygnet Square in Thamesmead, adding to the town's growing reputation as an emerging cultural district.
The work, entitled General Situation, is a sprawling sixty-five square metre illuminated shopfront painting exploring love, resilience and survival in turbulent times.
Charly, who lives in Thamesmead, works as a frontline NHS paramedic while dedicating herself to art. She said, "I created this work about people doing ordinary, human things. I was reflecting on love, war, and displacement—on how people persist, caring for those they love, and surviving despite everything."
Charly, who also acts as a carer of her blind mother, said:
"Without light, we cannot see. My mum going blind played a role in why I began illuminating my paintings, and that sparked my current fascination with illumination."
"This time, I wanted to make a large illuminated painting to brighten Cygnet Square during winter while celebrating people's ability to endure and care for each other, no matter the circumstances. At its core, the work reflects love as the most powerful force."
Charly's work draws on influences such as Renaissance altarpieces, Tiepolo's grand frescoes, and Goya's depictions of humanity. A small boy at the bottom of the huge work poses defiantly, inspired by football star Kylian Mbappé's signature celebration.
The artist's community-focused installations began in St. Louis, Senegal, in December 2023 during her Waaw Residency, where she created a floor-to-ceiling drawing reflecting life in St. Louis.
"I want people to get pleasure in art without having to read some nonsense on the wall or go to a stuffy gallery." "I hope that people will enjoy engaging with the figures and find their connections to the themes within the work".
Charly's work was commissioned by Peabody, which is leading the regeneration of Thamesmead. Making culture part of everyday life is a key part of their long-term plan to improve, grow, and care for the town.
A short walk from Abbey Wood station on the Elizabeth Line, the impactful installation is next to the nonprofit TACO! Gallery. The gallery presents a diverse programme of art, film and performance. Nearby, Bow Arts' Lakeside Centre, a finalist for the 2023 Pineapple Award for Creative Retrofit, offers 40 affordable workspaces, artist housing, a café and an early years nursery.
Peabody's cultural support continues, with Turner Prize winner Jasleen Kaur unveiling Thamesmead's first permanent public artwork this year. The community-led Thamesmead Creative Studio commissioned Jasleen to create this piece.
Adriana Marques, Head of Cultural Strategy for Thamesmead, said: "We're so pleased that Cygnet Square will be lit up by Charly's vibrant installation that speaks so powerfully about resilience."
"Her artwork is an example of our ongoing partnership with residents and the growing community of creatives who are increasingly making Thamesmead their home. Together, we're working to make culture a part of everyday life for local people."
"It's great to have yet another exciting exhibition to add to the growing body of art and culture across the town."
General Situation is free and visible to the public until 23rd February, illumination times from 7–9 am and 3–9 pm.
