Anguilla anguilla (2021)

Artist Simon Periton teamed up with Year 5 students at Brandlehow Primary School to create a new contemporary public artwork along a 27m hoarding on Osiers Road, Riverside Quarter.

Hazel and Hawthorn classes were set a series of creative tasks by Simon through digital workshops during autumn 2020. They explored the heritage of the Thames and Wandle rivers and students learned techniques including paper-cutting and weaving.

The end result Anguilla anguilla, refers to the growing of osiers (willow) in the area, which was cut and woven into baskets used to catch eels.

The work was commissioned by Hollybrook in association with Peabody, with support from the Arts service, and is curated by Dallas-Pierce-Quintero. Permanent public artworks by Simon Periton, inspired by the local area, will form part of the new public square at Osiers Road when construction is complete.

“I really enjoyed being creative, it was sooooooooooooooo fun! I can’t wait to see it in person when we go for our walks as we live nearby.” – Freya

“I was excited at what Simon was going to think about my art work, but when I saw the finished piece of artwork that Simon had made I was proud.” – Lorenzo

“I really enjoyed doing the artwork with Simon and I thought it was a great way to express our feelings.” – Daniela

“It was one of the best art experiences in my LIFE!!! When my brush touched the paper my head swirled with ideas.” – Yalin