Funded through the Mayor of London’s Air Quality Fund, Tom Pearman was commissioned to design a series of permanent vitreous enamel artworks promoting cleaner air across Brockley, South London.
Six artworks were installed at community locations including three local schools, a public library, a public house and a station café, distributing the project across places used as part of everyday neighbourhood life.
Cleaner Air
Each artwork presents a different positive message through the recurring graphic device of an opening box containing the words CLEANER AIR.
The simple box form creates a consistent visual identity across the series while allowing each location to have its own message and composition.
The artworks use strong colour, typography and simplified graphic forms to make the subject of air quality visible within the public realm in a way that is direct, positive and accessible.
Socially engaged public art
The permanent artworks were developed through a wider programme of community consultation and educational workshops exploring air quality, pollution and positive environmental messages.
Tom worked with local schools, residents, community organisations and businesses, gathering responses and developing ideas that informed the final designs.
Promotional T-shirts and badges were also produced using the project graphics, extending the visual identity of the cleaner-air campaign beyond the permanent artworks.
Project delivery
Tom managed the project from initial development through to installation.
His role included developing the artistic concept and designs, establishing relationships with Lewisham Council, local schools, community groups and businesses, delivering educational workshops, attending public meetings and coordinating the installation of the artworks across the six locations.
The project was delivered over a two-year period, with Tom’s remit extended during the commission.
Project feedback
“Tom was commissioned over a two year period and his remit was extended due to the quality of his work. He worked independently and thoroughly, over-achieving in the positive outcomes to the project. He has fantastic creative and strategic abilities and a project would be safe in his hands.”
— Nancy Stridgen, Project Manager, Cultural and Community Development, Lewisham Council
Crofton Park Library
Stillness Infant School
Dalmain Primary School
Project artworks location map. The locations included a public library, a public house, a station cafe and 3 local schools.
Crofton Park Library
Dalmain Primary School
Stillness Infant School
Broca Cafe
Broca Cafe
Beecroft Primary School
Beecroft Primary School
Barge Public House
Barge Public House
Promotional T-shirts were made to publicise the project were made.