Artist announced for new community mural in Thames Barrier Park

A striking new mural by artist Gaurab Thakali is set to bring colour, creativity and community spirit to Thames Barrier Park, celebrating the place’s unique identity.

Gaurab was selected from a strong pool of 58 applicants, all with local links to Newham or the park itself, reflecting the depth of creative talent in the area and the park’s importance as a valued community space.

The selection panel brought together a broad mix of voices, including representatives from the Royal Docks Team and Transport for London, local residents, artists, businesses and staff and students from Oasis Silvertown Academy.

The finished mural will celebrate the life, landscape and unique identity of Thames Barrier Park, capturing people enjoying the space alongside its distinctive features.

The design will feature the park’s iconic ‘Green Dock’ garden and the rich urban wildlife it supports, while serving as a bold, welcoming landmark, helping to guide more people to this much-loved riverside destination.

The community will play a key role in the creative process. Gaurab will work with locals through a programme of workshops, including open sessions and targeted engagement with community groups, ensuring the final design reflects the stories and experiences of those who use the park.

The mural is part of the Royal Docks Corridor works, the final phase of a £34 million programme delivered in partnership with Newham to improve a key route between Canning Town and London City Airport. The improvement works have delivered wider pavements, safer crossings, around 6km of new cycle lanes, alongside significant greening and public realm improvements.

Installation of the mural is expected to begin towards the end of the summer with the final artwork taking approximately two to three weeks to complete.

Once finished, the mural will stand as a colourful new landmark for Thames Barrier Park - celebrating its natural beauty, welcoming visitors, and showcasing the creativity of the local community.

Information on community engagement workshops with the artists will be shared soon on the website and socials.

For more information on Gaurab Thakali’s work, visit gaurabthakali.com