Mayor Rokhsana Fiaz and pupils from Star Primary School cut the ribbon to unveil a new work of art that has helped to transform an eyesore underpass in Canning Town.
Young people from the school contributed to the design of the new Wharfside Art Tunnel located beneath the A13 between Wharfside Road and Bow Ecology Park.
The large sculpture installation was commissioned by Newham Council and was created by West Ham-based visual art centre Rosetta Arts working with artist Helena Roden.
Mayor Fiaz said: “I’m delighted to see the artistic talent of our young people being showcased in this way. The pupils of Star Primary have been amazing contributors to this project which has seen local artists and the community come together to improve our environment. The underpass is a very unusual space, but it’s something I hope residents will be encouraged to use more.”
The sculpture is made of painted metalwork and fixed into a concrete wall that holds up the A13. The pink, yellow and mauve colours have been inspired by the plants and flowers that grow in the ecology park, while its grid pattern has been influenced by the new contemporary Manhattan-style buildings in Canning Town.
The underpass had previously been a target of anti-social behaviour. In future it will form a vital link in a walking and cycling route along the River Lea from Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park down to the River Thames.
Sanaz Amidi, chief executive officer of Rosetta Arts said: “This project will pave the way for a host of others which aim to revive Newham and create a sense of place, as well as incorporating and celebrating the ecology of the area.”